Melo reiterates Viola stance

Brazilian insists he is not looking for a move away from Fiorentina

By Nadia Carminati   Last updated: 5th July 2009  

Melo reiterates Viola stance

Melo: Not going anywhere

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Arsenal target Felipe Melo has reiterated his happiness at Fiorentina despite continued reports linking him with a move to Emirates Stadium.

The Brazilian international shone in Serie A last season and subsequently drew admirers from some of Europe's biggest clubs.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger was said to be keen on bringing the 25-year-old to the Premier League to add some much needed bite to his midfield but his efforts were rebuffed when the former Cruzeiro ace signed a new deal in Italy.

Despite Melo extending his stay at Fiorentina last week the Italians were reportedly interested in taking Emmanuel Eboue in exchange for the player just a few days ago while a move to Juventus has also been mooted.

Happy to stay

But the player himself, who is holidaying after helping Brazil to Confederations Cup glory this summer, said he does not want a move away from the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

"I come back to Italy when I end my holidays," he told Lancenet.com.br.

"I have a contract with Fiorentina in which it was written that should I have a good first season, the club would have the possibility to extend my contract automatically from five to six years.

"They utilised this clause and I am really happy.

"I owe Fiorentina a lot. I arrived and I immediately became a regular. I have never been on the bench."

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