Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle has defended the decision to sell midfielder Felipe Melo after the deal was formally completed.
Viola president calls on fans to have faith as Marchionni arrives
Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle has defended the decision to sell midfielder Felipe Melo after the deal was formally completed.
Juve have confirmed on their website that the Brazil midfielder has joined the club for 25million euros, with winger Marco Marchionni moving in the opposite direction for 4.5million euros.
And while the decision to allow Melo to leave has angered many Viola supporters, Della Valle has told the fans they should have more faith in those running the club.
"The club has clear ideas," he told a press conference.
"Selling Melo has caused outcry and scandal but in a transfer market - especially right now - I don't understand why.
"I like criticism if it is constructive but sometimes I read and see things on websites and the television that make no sense.
"In September, there were lots of sceptics surrounding Melo and plenty of criticism. Then he found his place and improved.
"Now, however, it appears that his departure is a tragedy.
"You should know that Melo wanted to leave. He received more than a few offers and chose the best from his personal perspective.
"We want greater balance. We are in the Champions League, which I think is excellent.
"We should trust that the sporting director, [Pantaleo] Corvino, puts his soul into this club and knows how to improve us.
"I don't understand the scepticism. It is a difficult time for the global economy. Even teams like AC Milan have to make sacrifices and sell valuable players.
"I want to conclude by saying that the fans should trust in the club."
Strengthen
Melo, meanwhile, has backed Della Valle's sentiments and is confident that the money earned from his sale will be used to bolster the squad.
"I want to thank Fiorentina for the opportunity and the faith they put in me and the directors and fans for the happy moments they gave me," he said in a statement.
"I hope the supporters can understand that my departure is a positive thing for me and the club. I am certain Fiorentina will be strengthened and that makes me happy."
