Dani Alves has asked to leave Juventus, the Italian champions’ chief Giuseppe Marotta said yesterday, as reports gather pace that the Brazilian is set to reunite with former coach Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

Alves, 34, had a spectacular impact in his only campaign in Serie A after eight trophy-laden seasons at Barcelona, helping the Italian team to a league and cup double and playing a crucial role in driving them to the Champions League final, where they lost 4-1 to Real Madrid.

The flamboyant Brazilian’s relationship with the club began to deteriorate after the defeat in Cardiff, however, and his recent behaviour has angered supporters.

Last week Alves said in an interview with Brazilian TV that Juventus forward Paolo Dybala needs to leave the Serie A giants one day in order to improve as a player.

“Dani Alves has decided that he wants to change his surroundings, so we will come to a mutual agreement and we wish him luck,” Marotta told reporter.

“There has been no break-up with Dani, but motivation is fundamental for any footballer.”

British media have reported that the Brazilian is on the verge of agreeing a two-year deal with City, as part of Guardiola’s attempts to rebuild his side for his second season in England by bolstering their options at full back.

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