Juventus coach Didier Deschamps is eager to sign  Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze to help boost the club's promotion bid back to Serie A.

The 28-year-old Argentinian moved to Old Trafford from Paris St Germain in the summer of 2004, but has found himself playing second fiddle to Patrice Evra this season.

Deschamps is hoping to lead Juventus back into the Italian top flight at the first attempt following their enforced relegation in the wake of the match-fixing scandal.

And the former Monaco coach believes Heinze has the credentials to help them achieve that aim.

"I saw Gabriel play in France during his time there, so I know him really well," Deschamps told French radio.

"He plays left-back at Manchester United, but I don't think it's the position where he can make the most of his abilities. He is better as a central defender.

"United have several left-backs so if they put Heinze up for sale, and we have the possibility to buy him, I don't see any reason why we can't do just that.

"He's an outstanding player, a leader and a winner, and on top of that he owns an EU passport which makes him even more attractive."

Heinze has also been linked with AC Milan and former club PSG.  PA