MELBOURNE has secured 2009 Adelaide best and fairest winner Bernie Vince in exchange for our second round compensation pick.

The classy midfielder was able to join the Demons after they gave the Crows their compensation pick, which was acquired after losing unrestricted free agent Colin Sylvia to Fremantle.

Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said: “Going into the trade and free agency periods, we needed to address our midfield as our number one priority, and we are very pleased to have a player of Bernie’s calibre joining our Club.”

“Bernie is an experienced strong-bodied midfielder that can come in and have an impact straight away with our young group. He is a best and fairest winner at the Adelaide Crows and Showdown Medal winner; he has shown his ability to perform in big games. He is a genuine quality midfielder who possesses an elite kick and great decision-making skills.

“After losing Colin Sylvia, who was one of our most experience and strong-bodied midfielders, it was important to address this need, and in getting Bernie into our Club, using the Colin Sylvia compensation pick, we feel like we have replaced a like for like.”

Vince played 129 matches for Adelaide from 2006-13, including 21 this year.

He has averaged almost 20 matches each season since 2008.

His club champion winning year in 2009 remains his best season, when he amassed 659 disposals from 24 matches.

In 2011, Vince represented Australia against Ireland in the International Rules Series.

He also won the Michael Tuck Medal for best on ground in 2012, when Adelaide won the NAB Cup.

Vince was originally drafted at pick No. 32 in the 2005 NAB AFL Draft from Woodville-West Torrens.