Juve 'optimistic' over Melo deal

Juventus hope to complete Felipe Melo's £21m transfer from Fiorentina next week.

Empics

Brazil international Felipe Melo (L) with the Confederations Cup. And Gilberto.

The Turin giants are keen to sign the Brazilian midfielder, who is also a target of Arsenal.

"I hope he can come to Pinzolo (Juve's pre-season training camp)," said Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli.

"That would mean that the negotiations would be done fast. Our relations with Fiorentina are very good. I am optimistic.

"But Melo's transfer will only be completed once the player signs the contract and I hope that will happen as soon as possible."

The 25-year-old Melo arrived to Florence from Spanish side Almeria last summer in a £7m transfer.

He is contracted to Fiorentina until 2013.