Juventus have identified £15m-rated Arsenal star Robin Van Persie as the heir to Pavel Nedved.
The Czech hero is expected to hang up his boots at the end of this season after considering retirement for several years.
The Bianconeri have packed their midfield with solid, hard-working figures like Momo Sissoko, Cristiano Zanetti and Christian Poulsen, but lack attacking quality on the wings.
According to the News of the World, Claudio Ranieri has pinpointed Van Persie as the ideal replacement for Nedved next term.
The 24-year-old Dutchman joined the Gunners for £3m from Feyenoord in 2004 and, although he has struggled with injury, still managed to net 28 goals in 87 games for the club.
He also impressed during Euro 2008 and caught the eye of Inter before they plumped for Amantino Mancini.
Juve have a good chance of completing their swoop for Van Persie, as his contract expires in 2011 and he recently criticised Arsenal’s wage restrictions.
“They won’t pay enormous amounts of money. They should go to a higher level of salary.”
The Bianconeri have repeatedly stated they will not be signing any more players this summer, but the fan protests at the lack of quality could prompt a rethink, especially if Tiago Mendes is sold to Atletico Madrid.
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