Mellberg - Right time to go

Defender aims to play Champions League football with Juve

Last updated: 28th February 2008

Olof Mellberg Asdton Villa defender

Mellberg: Happy with decision

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Olof Mellberg concedes he 'could not turn down' the opportunity to join Juventus on a free transfer.

The Swedish defender will bring a seven-year association with Aston Villa to an end in the summer when he links up with Juventus.

Mellberg has agreed a three-year contract with the Italian club and is looking forward to playing for Claudio Ranieri's side.

The former Racing Santander stopper admits it is the 'right time' to be leaving Villa after over 250 appearances for the club.

Happy

"Sooner or later the times comes to leave all clubs and for me this is the right time," said Mellberg in the Birmingham Mail.

"When the chance came to join Juventus I knew it would be the right choice.

"They are one of the more prestigious clubs in the world and they have watched me a lot, for Sweden and for Villa.

"I knew Claudio Ranieri from when I played in Spain and I am happy to have the opportunity to play Champions League football - it is something I could not turn down."