Andrea Pirlo insisted Paulo Dybala remains important to him amid continued speculation about the Juventus playmaker's future.
Dybala, 27, is again linked with a move away from the Serie A champions, despite expectations he would extend his stay at Juve, where he is contracted until 2022.
The Argentina international, who has been linked to Manchester United, missed Saturday's 4-0 win over Parma due to a thigh injury.
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Asked if Dybala was important to him, Juve coach Pirlo told reporters: "Absolutely. Champions like him are always fundamental in strong teams.