Despite his insistence that he is staying with Fiorentina, striking star Adrian Mutu continues to be linked with German side Schalke.
Mutu has become a hero at the Stadio Artemio Franchi and blasted 17 goals last term.
The Romanian international has played down rumours of interest from Real Madrid, stressing that he only wants to wear the Viola shirt, but Press sources continue to speculate about his future.
According to German newspaper Bild, Mutu has already begun negotiations with Bundesliga giants Schalke.
The report suggests that it is only the price tag of around £10m that is preventing a deal and that Schalke may throw in Danish striker Soren Larsen in part-exchange to try and tempt Fiorentina to part with their star man.
The player’s focus for now will be on Euro 2008 and trying to guide his Romania side through a Group of death that includes Italy, France and Holland.
