Juventus eye Mido

Hossam is keen to stay at Ajax for another season

Young Egyptian striker Ahmed Hossam could be on his way to Italian giants Juventus.

The Serie A title holders reportedly began negotiations with Hossam's Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam over the last week hoping to sign the 19-year-old.

Ajax brush aside off-colour Celts

Hossam, who is known as 'Mido' has been a regular player in Ajax's line-up since his return from the African Cup of Nations in Mali last February.

His 14 goals for the club were instrumental in Ajax's league and cup double last season.

We believe, Mido, will be the best replacement for (David) Trezeguet

Juventus General Director Luciano Moggi

Hossam was also selected as Egypt's leading foreign-based professional.

Mido has also continued his good form as the new season got underway in Europe, scoring in friendly matches against Celtic and Barcelona.

He also found the back of net last weekend as Ajax comfortably beat PSV Eindhoven 3-1 in the Johan Cruyff shield.

Luciano Moggi, the general director of Juventus is reported to have offered $18m for the promising striker.

Egyptian newspapers quoted Moggi as saying: "We believe, Mido, will be the best replacement for (David) Trezeguet who might move to Arsenal or Real Madrid next year".

Egypt's heartthrob, who was newly married this summer, made a statement for the sport channel -ART- on Friday, confirming the news that he has been in negotiations with Juve.

Hossam keen to stay

But he said Ajax officials, based on his wishes, were hoping to delay his transfer until next year.

"I am very happy at Ajax, the fans are great and we are all young players who respect each other," Hossam said.

"I still want to gain more glory with Ajax, my target is the champions league and then I might consider a move to another giant side."

Mido played for Cairo's Zamalek before moving two years ago in a free trial to Belgian side Ghent, where he spent one year and was sold to Ajax for $4m.