Lassana Diarra admits there was no way he was turning down Real Madrid when they made contact this month.
The former Portsmouth midfielder was unveiled to local Madrid media yesterday and presented with his Real shirt, which will carry the name 'Lass' on the back.
Diarra explained: "My last name is already here, but Mahamadou Diarra is another player with the same surname. I do not want people calling me Diarra or Diarra I or II. So I prefer that people know me by the name of 'Lass' because it is easier to learn and keep in the mind."
"An offer from Real Madrid is something you cannot refuse. It is a dream that was long overdue. The signing has been somewhat stretched in time, but now I feel very happy. Now that I'm in Madrid I will give everything."
"I came here to play at 100 percent, I want to defend the colors of Real Madrid. It is true that many people compare me with Claude Makelele, but he arrived at Real Madrid a lot older."
"I have a lot of personality and I want to prove to the fans of Madrid that I can play here and defend the colors of this team."