New Fiorentina wing-back Felipe Melo has revealed he could easily have accepted offers from Real Madrid and Barcelona this year.

The Brazilian said: "I signed with Fiorentina in January (on a Bosman), even if I was with Almeria until June. During this period I received an offer from Real Madrid and was wanted by Barcelona.

"This for me was very gratifying, but now I'm with Fiorentina and it is a big step for my career. In Florence I'm really happy."