Juventus deny interest in Cole

(GETTY IMAGES)

Juventus have quashed speculation they are interested in signing West Ham forward Carlton Cole.

Juve boss Claudio Ranieri coached Cole when both were at Chelsea and he once described the striker as the best young player he had ever come across.

However, Juventus sporting director Alessio Secco told PA Sport today: "We are not interested in Carlton Cole.

"We are very happy with the players we have in the team and we will not make any moves in the January transfer market."

Cole is under contract with the Hammers until June 2010 having joined two years ago after finding first-team chances hard to come by at Stamford Bridge.

Juventus, who are second in Serie A following a run of six wins in their last seven games, have recently seen veteran striker David Trezeguet return from a lengthy injury lay-off.