Defender Josh Ruffels says he had no hesitation in signing for Huddersfield Town, amid reported interest from Nottingham Forest.
The Reds were said to be keen on a summer move for the left-back as his Oxford United contract came to an end.
But he has agreed to join the Terriers once he becomes a free agent next month, with a two-year deal in place, which can be extended by a further 12 months.
Ruffels had been offered fresh terms by the U’s during the season, but turned down the chance to stay with the League One side in favour of a switch to the Championship.
“I’m really happy, as soon as they showed interest, I was really keen to come,” the 27-year-old told the club website.
“We had a meeting and they presented the club to me, showed me how they like to play football, and that attracted me. The way the head coach plays is very attractive.
“I know it’ll be difficult; I’ve played once in the Championship when I was younger, but that’s a challenge that I’m looking to take now I’m 27.
“I want to push myself in the Championship and as soon as Huddersfield Town showed interest in me, I knew that was my time to kick on. I’m ready to go now.”
He added: “As a full-back you’ve got to defend well first but in this style of football it’s about getting forward too to create goals.
“I’ve seen Harry Toffolo do that and a bit of competition will be good for us both! I want to try and get in the team.
“Everyone needs that competition, I didn’t feel like I had that at Oxford, so hopefully I can push him on, and he can do it with me. I’m excited.”
Huddersfield boss Carlos Corberán said: “Josh has a real desire to contribute to the team in both boxes; he has the ability to create chances for his teammates, but also wants to keep the ball out of the back of our net.
Is it a blow for Forest to miss out on Ruffels? Have your say in the comments below
“He is an offensive left-back, who has also played in the middle of the pitch, which shows a good level of versatility, which will help the team.
“He has played many minutes and a lot of games in a row over the last few years, which shows he is physically ready to adapt to the Championship, so we look forward to working with him.”
Forest currently have three left-backs on the books, following the departure of Yuri Ribeiro. But doubt remains over the futures of Nicholas Ioannou and Gaetan Bong, which could leave Tyler Blackett as the only senior option.
