Juventus manager Thiago Motta has cautioned Manchester City that left-back Andrea Cambiaso was not tempted by a move to the Etihad Stadium last month.
Following Kyle Walker’s transfer to AC Milan, City intensified their search for a replacement and turned their attention to the versatile Cambiaso, who excels as a left-back but is equally adept on the right side of defense.
A reported bid of €65m (£54.4m) was made but ultimately did not materialize, although City is likely to pursue the 24-year-old again in the summer.
When asked about Cambiaso’s future, Motta emphasized that he is solely focused on Juventus at the moment.
“I’m pleased he chose to remain with a prestigious club like Juventus,” Motta stated. “I believe he always intended to stay.”
City made significant investments in their defense in January, acquiring Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis for a total of over £60m, while Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez also joined as forward and midfielder, respectively, bringing City’s spending to nearly £180m.
The full-back position is expected to be their next focus for reinforcement, but Juventus is prepared to hold firm on Cambiaso, whose contract in Turin extends until 2029.