ROME (AFP) - Juventus have signed Brazilian striker Amauri, widely seen as one of Serie A's best midfielders, from Palermo in a deal worth nearly 23 millions euros.

The deal sees Juventus player Antonio Nocerino go in the other direction for 7.5 million euros, a statement from the Turin club said Thursday.

"To play in a big team is a dream I've held for eight years, since I arrived in Italy," Amauri told a press conference.

"I chose Juventus because they wanted me more than the others."

The 28-year-old Amauri, who was also courted by AC Milan, has scored 15 goals in 34 games this season.

He first joined Napoli from Swiss team AC Bellinzone in 2001, eventually moving to Chievo in 2003. He joined Palermo in 2006.