Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has insisted that in-demand centre-back Daniele Rugani is "the future" and will not be allowed to leave the Italian champions.
Rugani, 21, joined Juve from Empoli in last summer's transfer window and had been expected to play a key role for the Old Lady this season.
The defender has only started two league games during the 2015-16 campaign, however, which has led to a host of speculation surrounding his future.
Arsenal and Chelsea are both said to be interested in the Italian, but Allegri has insisted that the youngster will not be allowed to leave Turin.
"Rugani is a kid, he's good, he's young. He came here from Empoli with only one Serie A campaign under his belt. At Juventus he met four players among the strongest in Europe ahead of him and had to adapt to a completely different playing system," Allegri told reporters.
"He must not be pressured. The same people who want him on the pitch now will crucify him as soon as he makes a mistake. Managing Rugani and the other youngsters is down to me, so I have to do this to my best. Rugani is and will be the future of Juventus and Italian football. Best not to hurry.
"He developed a lot in the last two months and his increased playing time is evidence of that, but this is not a reason to heighten the pressure on him. He's young and he must do what he can right now."
Rugani has been on the Juve bench for 22 of their 24 league games this season.
Matt Law
