French top flight side Rennes said Tuesday they had signed Norwegian left back Birger Meling from fellow French side Nimes on a three-year deal.

"I am very happy to be here," said Stavanger native Meling, 26.

"When I heard it was possible to come I was really excited. We can do some fine things this season with the group," added Meling, describing the move as an appealing challenge at a club which made it into the top six last season whereas Nimes went down.

"This is a very good opportunity for us. He had an excellent season at Nimes," said Rennes' technical director, former France striker Florian Maurice.

"The club's target every season is to make it into Europe. He is a Norwegian international so he has a certain international experience, whicH is also important for the group."