Milan, 15 January (LaPresse) – "The decision to proceed or not with any M&A transaction is based solely on the potential target's ability not only to integrate into UniCredit's strategy, but also to meet our repeatedly stated financial performance parameters. In this context, recent rumours and speculation regarding the stake in MPS are speculative and unjustified, as are the assumptions regarding the alleged interest in acquiring other stakes. It is regrettable to have to intervene once again to deny rumours that are pure invention and have no effect other than to fuel confusion and distortions in the market." This was Unicredit's response in a statement regarding rumours circulating about Gae Aulenti's possible interest in Delfin's stake in the Siena-based institution. "UniCredit has always clearly stated that M&A transactions are a strategic tool for the Group. The role of the internal team dedicated to M&A transactions is to evaluate all options, both within and, potentially, outside the Group's geographical perimeter. This activity involves, at all times, discussions, analyses and preliminary assessments of potential targets, elements that in no way imply the concrete possibility that a transaction will actually be carried out," UniCredit also emphasises.