Nick Barmby became Terry Venables' first signing as Leeds manager and admitted the chance to team up with the former England coach again had lured him to Elland Road.
Barmby passed his medical and agreed personal terms to complete a Stg£2.75 million move from Liverpool.
And the Hull-born England midfielder, who began his career under Venables at Tottenham, revealed the chance to play under him again was the key factor in his decision to join Leeds.
"It had to be something special for me to leave Liverpool because I enjoyed it there," said Barmby.
"I heard of Leeds' interest and the chance to work with Terry again was a draw. It's a thrill for me and I'm looking forward to it.
"The players here are up there with those of any other team and, with the boss' direction, we can do well this year."
Venables was pleased to land the versatile Barmby who can play anywhere across the midfield or up front.
"I had several players in mind and Nick was one of them. I'm delighted that he is joining us.
"With the transfer windows coming in we will have to have flexible players who can adjust and play in positions they may not be used to and he comes into that category."
Leeds were £70 million in debt before selling Rio Ferdinand to Manchester United for £30 million and Venables admitted that the current difficult financial climate in football had enabled him to land Barmby for such a low fee.
"Most likely several months ago the price would have been a different story. I don't think I've seen a time when finances have been so bad."