Fabio Cannavaro would love Marcello Lippi to join him at Al Ahli when the 62-year-old steps down as Italy coach after the World Cup.

The UAE League champions earlier this month announced the shock signing of 36-year-old Cannavaro on a two-year deal, and subsequent speculation has linked Lippi with a similar switch.

The Azzurri's 2006 World Cup-winning captain would relish the opportunity to be reunited with his former national coach, but insists it was not a factor in his decision to move to Dubai.

"I'd love him to come," Cannavaro, who won 132 caps for Italy, told L'Equipe.

"I do not know if he intends to lead the team the next season.

"I made this choice because I needed a change. But he has not decided yet.

"But in Dubai, it is hot and there is the sea. For him, it could be an advantage."

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