Ghana defender John Mensah has expressed his gratitude to English side Sunderland for persevering to sign him on a permanent deal and described the move as a "dream come true.
The 27-year-old sealed the contract with the Premier League campaigners on Wednesday night after weeks of tortuous negotiations.
There was the real possibility of Mensah returning to French side Lyon having spent last season on loan at Sunderland.
But having endured a torrid time at the club two seasons ago, the defender insisted on returning to England where he impressed at the Stadium of Light.
Even though Lyon were bargaining too hard, Sunderland coaches Steve Bruce and Eric Black insisted on getting Mensah to return to the club to boost their ranks.
With the deal completed, Mensah says he is grateful to the club and its supporters for having the confidence in him.
"I am happy to be back at the stadium of Light, especially meting Steve Bruce, Eric Black, my team mate and lovely supporters of Sunderland," Mensah said.
"It is like a dream come true, they make me happy and I thank God for such a renewal."
Mensah will stay in France to secure his English work permit before leavinig for Sunderland to prepare for the new
season.
He is expected to arrive in England with the next 48 hours.