Juventus step up chase for Wolfsburg’s Edin Dzeko

Juventus boss Luigi Delneri (Photo: Roberto Vicario)

Juventus have stepped up their attempt to sign coveted Bosnia striker Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg by tabling a €30 million bid for the 24-year-old.

Juve president Andrea Agnelli has raised further funds to secure the signature of Dzeko, according to Il Corriere dello Sport. However reports in Germany suggest Wolfsburg will resist the increased bid and hold out for a €40million offer from Manchester City.

The former German champions have avoided entering into negotiations with Juventus despite the player previously stating he would relish a move to Serie A.

Juventus have become frustrated by the lack of progress and have given Wolfsburg a seven-day ultimatum over the transfer.

Wolfsburg’s recent signing of Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic may increase the Bundesliga club’s willingness to let their prized asset leave the Volkswagen Arena. Mandzukic, formerly of Dinamo Zagreb, boasts an enviable record in Croatia with 42 goals in 81 appearances.

Should Juventus fail in their attempt to prise Dzeko from newly-appointed Wolfsburg manager Steve McClaren’s grasp, it is expected Juve boss Luigi Delneri will focus upon targets within Italy.

The Serie A side have recently been linked with Sampdoria’s Giampaolo Pazzini and Fiorentina’s Alberto Gilardino.