Ex-Juventus midfielder Melo to leave Palmeiras, confirms coach

Former Italian football club Juventus and Brazil international midfielder Felipe Melo is set to part ways with Palmeiras, the Brazilian club's coach said.

The announcement came after Melo was left out of Palmeiras' squad on Saturday for their home clash against Avai on Saturday, which the hosts won 2-0, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Because of the player that he is, Felipe is clearly upset that he is not playing," Palmeiras coach Cuca told reporters.

"We had a frank and direct conversation, I took into account problems that could arise in the future and told him that he is free to continue his career somewhere else."

Having joined Palmeiras on a three-year deal from Internazionale in January, Melo made just five of a possible 16 appearances in Brazil's Serie A championship this year.

In May, he was banned for six matches for punching an opponent in a Copa Libertadores match. He has also suffered hand and thigh injuries.

Brazilian media reported that Melo's representatives are in talks with Turkish club Galatasaray, where the 34-year-old played from 2013 to 2015.

--IANS

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