Marchisio was never for sale

Juventus have rejected speculation that they considered selling Claudio Marchisio during the summer transfer window.

The Italian international has been one of the club’s best players so far this season and a major reason why they are currently top of the League.

“We never thought about selling Marchisio,” director general Beppe Marotta told La Domenica Sportiva.

“He is eclectic, a player who can combine quantity with quality. He’s one of the top players in Europe right now.”

The midfielder, 25, is actually the club’s joint leading Serie A scorer this season – with Alessandro Matri – thanks to his six goals in 12 games.

His latest came in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Cesena.

“We knew that we had to collect a victory,” Marotta continued. “And the side brought home the three points needed.”

The former Sampdoria official also applauded the work of new boss Antonio Conte, the former Juve captain who led Siena to promotion last term.

“Conte has talent, he has got the best value out of our players, he’s given them an attachment to the club and installed a good work ethic.”