Swedish star Johan Elmander has revealed his love for Juventus, prompting speculation he could join compatriot Olof Mellberg in Turin this summer.
The 26-year-old forward is earning plaudits in France’s Ligue 1 for Toulouse and has been tipped to join one of Europe’s giants in the near future.
The Haute-Garonne outfit reportedly rejected a £7m offer from Lyon last year and Manchester City and Tottenham have also expressed an interest, but it seems that Elmander is enamoured with Juve.
“I want to join a big side and I am ready for Italy,” he declared. “I have dreamed of playing for Juventus since I was a child.
“I am strong on my right and I score a few with my head, but I must and can improve.
“I was inspired by Marco Van Basten, but my real role models were at home because my father and grandfather played in the Swedish First Division.”
Elmander concluded by congratulating the Old Lady on securing the services of Swedish national side teammate Mellberg.
“He is a Viking,” he explained. “He is hard as nails and has a fighter’s mentality. He is a great swoop for the Bianconeri.”
According to Tuttosport, Juve are also keen to lure Napoli sensation Marek Hamsik and Uruguayan defender Diego Lugano as they prepare for a Scudetto push next term.
