Toure planned City move months ago

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The 28-year-old defender has signed a four-year contract with City after ending a seven-year spell at Arsenal. He follows former Gunners' team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor in joining Mark Hughes' side, but claims he knew he would be moving long before the Togo international's transfer.

"I think before Adebayor we knew. There was some talk about coming here. It's from six months ago," Toure said at his presentation.

Toure claims he had received offers from abroad, but never contemplated leaving the Premier League.

He said: "I was the last one in the 'Invincibles' team (the Arsenal side that went a whole season unbeaten in the league) and I was expecting to leave Arsenal.

"I think Arsenal are a really good team, but it was the right time for me to move.

"First I thought I did not want to leave England, even though other teams came in for me. But it was important not to leave for me and my family."

"Manchester City are a really good team and want to do something. I am really delighted to be here, the future is big."

Toure feels his new employers can challenge for the Barclays Premier League title next season.

He added: "Yes, I believe (so), that's why I am here. The quality is big, there are fantastic players here. I will give everything I have to make the club one of the best in England."