Vanney refutes talk of Altidore leaving Toronto FC

Toronto FC striker Jozy Altidore won't be heading to Europe - or anywhere else, for that matter - at least according to head coach Greg Vanney.

"I've heard nothing from (TFC management) that any other club in the world has reached out to us with an offer or anything," Vanney told Sportsnet's John Molinaro. "I'm not the least bit surprised that clubs around the world are interested in Jozy, but to be interested in (him) and to actually approach us and make us an offer is another step."

A report surfaced last week suggesting that Altidore, who's amassed 56 goals and 16 assists in 107 games across three-and-a-half seasons for the Reds, was attracting interest from Italian and French clubs. The Ligue 1 transfer window will remain open for another 10 days, while the Serie A window closed last week, apparently without a formal inquiry being made for the striker.

"I want Jozy here … so, for me, it’s not even a discussion," Vanney added.

For his part, Altidore publicly stated earlier this year that he wants to retire in Toronto.

Meanwhile, the last 10 days have exhibited both the good and the bad side of the United States international. Altidore recorded a hat-trick in his last appearance for TFC, a 5-2 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Canadian Championship final second leg, but that came three days after he was sent off only 11 minutes into a 3-2 defeat to New York City for kicking out at Alexander Callens.