Fulham have plucked Danish international Claus Jensen from fellow Londoners Charlton Athletic.

The midfielder will join the Cottagers on a three-year deal for a fee of £1.25m.

The 27-year-old had a year left on his contract and said he wanted to move clubs because he felt he needed a new challenge.

Fulham manager Chris Coleman told the club’s website: “I am delighted to welcome Claus to Fulham. I know that he will add a great deal to the squad in terms of his passing ability and his dead ball prowess. Claus has had a great career in the Premiership so far being a valuable member of both Bolton and Charlton’s teams over a number of years.”

Jensen’s recent form at The Valley earned him a call-up to Denmark’s Euro 2004 squad, having previously been part of the team at the 2002 World Cup.

He signed for Charlton from Bolton in 2000 and said of his latest move: “Having spoken to Chris Coleman and seeing the facilities here at Fulham, I am more than happy to have made the switch from south to west London, and believe it is the right move for me at this stage in my career.”

Charlton manager Alan Curbishley said he had tried to keep hold of the midfielder but knew he was fighting a losing battle.

“From the minute Claus was approached by Fulham, it was clear he wanted to play for them,” said Curbishley.