Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg is hoping that he will be deployed in the middle of the back four at Juventus next season.

The Sweden international has agreed to join to the Italian giants in the summer and is looking forward to reverting back to his favoured position.

He has often been used at right-back during his time at Villa Park, but admits that he prefers to be in the heart of the action.

"They [Juventus] consider me as a central defender, which is what Martin O'Neill used to see me as," he told Sportbladet.

"Last season, it worked really well with [Villa centre-half] Martin Laursen and also at the start of this season when we played together.

"I don't feel uncomfortable when I get to play as a central defender."

Melberg also revealed that his decision to end his seven-year stay in England was driven by a desire to challenge for league titles.

"It will be different in Italy," said the 30-year-old.

"Actually, it's the first time that I will be joining a real top club who can, and wants, to fight for titles.

"With all due respect to Aston Villa, they have never had the possibility to challenge in that way."

TEAMtalk / Eurosport