Roberto Mancini has emerged as a shock candidate for Ciro Ferrara's job at Juventus.

La Stampa says the former Inter Milan coach is the only realistic candidate to succeed Ferrara if he cannot arrest Juve's recent slide. Their looming Champions League clash with Bayern Munich could decide the coach's future.

Meanwhile, Mancini's candidacy is gathering strength. While defeated at Cagliari on Sunday, Juve's board are yet to seriously discuss Ferrara's position. However, Mancini's name has not been thrown out, though Juve directors know fans may be against the appointment.