Juventus in for Tottenham target Fernando Llorente

Juventus have reportedly made a bid for Tottenham Hotspur target Fernando Llorente.

The Athletic Bilbao striker told his club that he has no intention of remaining with the Liga outfit beyond next summer, alerting a number of Europe’s top clubs.

Tottenham and Manchester City have both been linked with the target-man, who was a member of Spain’s victorious Euro 2012 squad.

However, Juventus have reportedly stolen a march on the two English clubs by lodging a £14 million bid for the striker which was subsequently rejected. They are expected to return with an improved offer.

Juve’s interest in Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has cooled and the Serie A winners have turned their attentions elsewhere.

Tottenham’s need for a new striker is pressing, with Jermain Defoe their only senior centre-forward.

Manager Andre Villas-Boas is also keen to sign Internacional striker Leandro Damiao who has impressed for Brazil in the Olympics, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.