Kevin Theophile-Catherine rejected other offers in moving from Rennes to Cardiff City for around £2m. The 23 year old French defender told France Football: "I said if there was an opportunity in the summer that I would try to seize it. My departure was more or less agreed by the club in January.

"I thank Rennes for having not blocked me. I was educated at the club, but it was the right time for something new.

"I knew Cardiff were following me for some time, but there wasn't much time remaining before the end of the transfer window.

"Things accelerated after the match against Evian (on 24th August). I didn't hesitate when the opportunity arose.

"I had two or three contacts but, in my eyes, this was the best and most concrete project. The club really showed that they wanted to sign me.

"Since I was a kid, the Premier League has attracted me. Cardiff are also a team that has a big heart and players with fighting spirit."