New Nottingham Forest defender Moussa Niakhate believes his move to the City Ground was the 'next step' in his career.
The centre-back put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the option of a further 12 months, after signing from Mainz.
Niakhate became the club's fourth incoming of the summer transfer window, after Taiwo Awoniyi, Giulian Biancone and Dean Henderson.
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After linking up with his new team-mates in Spain for the Reds' pre-season training camp, the left-sided defender shared his first words since making the switch to the East Midlands. He said: "I'm very happy. It's a great day for me and my family.
"I wanted to join this club because it's a historic club and to play in the Premier League was my dream since I was young. Now I can realise my dream."
The Frenchman was questioned whether the decision to leave Mainz after four years was a difficult one. He said: "No, because it was time for me to take the next step. Nottingham fits perfectly for me. When they showed interest in me, straight away I made my decision."
Niakhate leaves Germany for England after previously playing in France for Valenciennes and Metz. After making 135 appearances for Mainz, the 26-year-old will link up with three familiar members of Steve Cooper's squad.
"I already know three players now. I want to meet the team, to speak with them and to speak about football," he told the club's media team.
"Nuno da Costa, I played with him at Valenciennes. Cafu, I played with him at Metz and I know Taiwo (Awoniyi) because I played with him at Mainz. I have played for three clubs before and I met one player here from each, so it's already good."
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