Ballack denies Juventus deal
(AFP)
Updated: 2006-01-11 09:44

MUNICH, Germany (AFP) - Germany's star midfielder and captain Michael Ballack has denied reports he had agreed a deal with Italian giants Juventus.

The Italian press reported that Ballack, whose Bayern Munich contract comes to an end in June this year, is set to join Juventus next week.

However the 29-year-old Ballack on Tuesday told Germany's SID news agency in Dubai where Bayern Munich are undergoing winter training: "There is nothing new in my situation, otherwise I would have announced it."

And Ballack's agent, Michael Becker, said: "We have neither had any discussions with Juventus nor signed a contract. His next contract is the most important of his career. It's not just about the financial side. The sporting aspect is very important too.

"In fact the sporting side is the most important thing in Michael's eyes and that's why nothing has been decided yet," continued Becker, who said a decision would be made by the start of the World Cup on June 9.

"Ideally, everything should be settled by the next Champions League match," which takes place on February 21 against AC Milan.