Real Madrid’s versatile midfielder Geremi is looking forward to his time with Middlesbrough even though he had his sights set on one of the Premiership's bigger teams.
The Cameroon international has joined Boro on a season-long loan after failing to hold down a regular place in the Spanish capital.
"Middlesbrough might not be the greatest English team but they have ambitions and discovering the Premier League is pure happiness for me," he said.
"I have always been attracted by this high-level league. I also had advanced contacts with Chelsea but it did not work out because of the financial side."
Geremi, who is equally adept in defence, played in all of Cameroon's World Cup group games but made just nine appearances for Real last season.
Since arriving in Madrid three years ago from Turkish side Genclerbirligi, the 23-year-old has been a steady performer until his first team chances dried up last season.
"My first wish was to have the opportunity to play because my last months with Madrid were not fantastic despite being told that I would play," he said.
"I was very disappointed about that. On the other hand this was the coach's choice and I always respected it."