Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has a contract which expires this coming summer, sparking interests from clubs around Europe like Chelsea Manchester United, and Juventus, among others.

Juventus were reported to have proposed a player-switch deal involving Andrea Pirlo on their end, which was repudiated by Madrid boss Carlo Ancelloti.

"Xabi is a vital player for Madrid now that he's recovered from injury. There are only two players like him in Europe. One is Pirlo and the other is Xabi," Ancelloti told Mediaset.

"However, we have no intention of making a player exchange deal with Juventus. There is no substance to any rumour like that."

The Los Blancos mentor disclosed that the La Liga giants will not be handing out Xabi just yet, as the latter still remains an integral part of Ancelloti's plans in the ongoing 2013/14 campaign.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is closely keeping an eye on the development of the Spanish international's status at the Bernabeu, as the latter may freely discuss future contracts with other clubs.

However, Mourinho must move swiftly as United were already reported to have communicated with Xabi's camp.

Given his vast experience and quality, the ex-Liverpool man will certainly be a great snatch on a free-transfer.

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