Manchester City have received fresh encouragement from Juventus to bid for goalkeeper Gigi Buffon.

With Juve's chances of Champions League qualification growing ever slimmer, the Bianconeri have decided to make Buffon available, says Gazzetta dello Sport.

Juve chiefs are convinced City remain keen on Buffon, despite the success of Shay Given this season.

They plan to use Buffon's sale to fund a deal for Lyon keeper Hugo Lloris.