Hampton & Richmond-bound striker Nana Badu says the lure of life in the Blue Square South was the prime factor in his move from Walton Casuals.
Hotshot Badu was chased by a host of clubs after impressing with 15 goals to help the Stags avoid relegation from the Ryman Division One South.
The 24-year-old admitted the likes of Kingstonian and Metropolitan Police were among his courters.
Badu said: "I was quite close to signing for Kingstonian and the Met.
"But then Hampton came in for me and that is much more of a challenge.
"I spent time at Maidenhead last year but I wasn't at my best, so I reckon I owe something to the Conference South."
Badu has played for numerous clubs since rebuilding his career after a major knee operation.
And he is aware there will always be a level of concern over his long-term fitness.
Badu added: "I dropped down a league to play for Walton so as not to put so much pressure on my knee.
"I have not really tested it to the max yet. But I am confident things will be fine."
The striker is itching to prove himself on the pitch and help the Beavers go one better than last season, when they lost the play-off final.
Badu said: "I spoke to Alan Devonshire and he seems a great manager.
"I can't wait to get started.
"He knows about my injury but he believes if he gets me fully fit, I will be hard to play against."
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