Montolivo stuns Della Valle

President surprised over captain's stalling over new deal

By Simone Bargellini   Last updated: 8th September 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Montolivo stuns Della Valle

Montolivo: Yet to sign

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Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle has stated his surprise at captain Riccardo Montolivo's decision to stall over a new contract.

The Italian international is one of the key members of the Viola side and was expected to sign a new deal with the club.

However the midfielder broke talks off to see what options were available to him after reported interest from Arsenal and Manchester City in his services.

The 25-year-old still has two years left to run on his current deal, but Della Valle spoke of his disappointment that a new contract has not been tied up.

"I was left totally stunned by this Montolivo contract renewal situation," Della Valle told Sky Italia.

"There were only a few details left to be decided. I would hate for his agent to be involved in this turnaround."

No hurry

Despite Della Valle's outburst, Montolivo insisted he was keeping his future in mind and wanted to take his time before making a decision.

"The renewal? There is no case and no hurry. I have another two years (of contract) and I want to think about it, I have the right to take my time. It's an important decision for my life and career, both for me and for Fiorentina" Montolivo said to RaiUno.

Montolivo's agent Giovanni Branchini showed his support for the player's choice, indicating that he wanted more time to think.

"We had met before the World Cup with the club and the agreement was near," Branchini told Sky Italia.

"But Riccardo wants to think twice before binding for five years at Fiorentina and will take a little time (to achieve an agreement).

"The issue has never been economic, but Riccardo wants to be convinced of his choice, for his sake and for the good of Fiorentina."

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