Malian midfielder Seydou Keita said on Tuesday that he chose Spanish side Valencia despite being in advanced talks with the English Premier League's Liverpool.

The former Barcelona midfielder, who spent the last 18 months with Chinese side Dalian, returned to Europe in the last transfer window after joining Valencia.

He insisted that he broke off negotiations with Liverpool when he was informed by Valencia's interest.

"When we received the call from Valencia, talks with Liverpool were at a very advanced stage," Keita was quoted as saying by Sky Sports on Tuesday.

"But then I told my agent we were going to Valencia. I did not doubt for a second."

"When I came to play at Mestalla with Sevilla or Barcelona I suffered a lot to win, because this is a really big club with fantastic fans. That is why I opted to come here,” he added.

The 34-year-old midfielder defended Valencia's decision to sign him for only six-months, saying that the deal included the option for a 12-month extension at the end of this season.

"It is important that this is clear. I am coming here from China. To sign for a year-and-a-half is a difficult thing for the club.

"I told them to relax, that I would sign for six months and if I have the right level we will all have time to continue. That is better for the club and for everyone."

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