Ancelotti distances Bayern from reports linking side to midfield maestro

Bayern Munich boss Carlo Ancelotti has distanced reports linking the Bundesliga side with a move for PSG midfielder Marco Verratti. 

The Italy international remains one of the most sought after players on the continent and is a key member of the current PSG setup. 

Ancelotti knows the 24-year-old well from their time together in Paris and with Xabi Alonso retiring at the end of the campaign and Arturo Vidal potentially on the move in the summer, rumours have emerged suggesting Bayern will move for Verratti at the end of the season. 

However, speaking prior to Friday night’s 2-1 win over Freiburg, Ancelotti looked to cool reports suggesting a move is possible. 

"I know Marco Verratti - I coached him over two years with PSG,” the Bayern boss is quoted as saying by ESPN. 

"He is a very good player but he currently plays for PSG. I also know he will continue to play for PSG for a long time still. 

"I have not spoken with his for three months, not even by phone. Forget it." 

PSG are understandably reluctant to cash in on Verratti, who is averaging the second most passes per game (88.9) in Ligue 1 this season.

For more stats on Marco Verratti, click here to view his WhoScored player page