Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey's Trip to Italy to Save Marriage  10/21/05

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey's recent trip to Italy was a last-ditch attempt to save their marriage, according to music manager Lou Pearlman.

After denying a barrage of reports that their marriage is on the rocks, the pop couple left their Los Angeles home for a romantic trip to Italy earlier this month (OCT05).

And, while the pair maintain their relationship is still strong, Pearlman, who represents Lachey's friend and former 98 Degrees band mate Jeff Timmons, claims he's heard the couple are struggling.

He tells America's Star magazine, "Timmons says Nick told him, 'My marriage is shaky right now. I'm hoping this trip will turn things around.

"'This trip could be a second honeymoon - or preparation for a divorce. I don't know what's going to happen, and Jessica doesn't know what's going to happen, but we're going to give it our best shot.'"

Representatives for the couple deny the claims.

Simpson and Lachey's third-year wedding anniversary is on Wednesday (26OCT05).