Schalke confirms rejection of initial offer from Juventus for Julian Draxler

If Juventus wants to see Julian Draxler's attacking wizardry on display at the club's eponymous stadium, director general Beppe Marotta will need to present an improved offer.

Schalke sporting director Horst Heldt confirmed Monday that the Italian side has come knocking for the attacking midfielder, but was quick to note that a deal is far from being brokered.

There are contrasting reports as to the actual offer that Juventus presented for the 21-year-old, but whatever it was, it clearly did not meet the valuation of the German club - who are said to be holding out for €30 million.

Heldt went on to add that he has informed Juventus of the club's desire to end negotiations outright, though - as with many comments during the transfer window - what seem like definitive statements are often rendered meaningless once the monetary figure involved starts to rise.

Marotta did admit that the two sides are well apart on an agreement, however.

"In a very realistic way, there are many proposals in the market. Today we presented an offer based on our evaluations and I think there's still a big gap," Marotta told Sky Sport Italia, as translated by Football Italia.

"That was one of the many proposals we have put forward during this market. The player belongs to Schalke 04, so obviously it ultimately depends on them.

"We are in no rush, but the squad at (Juventus manager Max) Allegri's disposal is solid and we are trying to add a few cherries to the cake.

Draxler, who has long been courted by a host of other clubs, including Arsenal, would certainly fit the bill as said cherry. Draxler - capable of playing as both a traditional attacking midfielder and out on the wing - would help to offset the loss of Arturo Vidal, who is on his way to Bayern Munich, and would give Allegri his desired playmaker heading into the upcoming season.

Schalke, of course, doesn't need to sell the youngster, and has already proven in the past that unless a suitable offer comes in, Draxler will remain at the Veltins-Arena.