Alan Curbishley paid �4m for the 23-year-old Danish international, almost four times the previous club record paid to Barnsley for Neil Redfearn in 1998.

Jensen chose the Division One champions ahead of Ipswich, who were also willing to pay �4m for his services.

Jensen's girlfriend is said to have preferred a move to London, where she could get direct flights back to Denmark.

Impressed

Jensen said: "Everything about the club is top drawer. They have impressed me from the board to the manager and the fans and the ground.

"I played against them last season and I know it's a very strong squad. I'm so happy to be here.

"It will be my first year in the Premiership. I've played Premiership teams in cup games but it's always different in the league. It's definitely a higher level.

"That's where every player wants to be and Charlton have given me my chance."

Curbishley was delighted to have finally made a big signing after recently missing out on midfielder Don Hutchison.

"For �4million I get someone with great ability. He can score goals and I want him to score more.

"He can also make goals and has the attitude I want and he's young enough to be affected by what we want.

"Claus recognised us as an up-and-coming club. He's an up-and-coming player and it should be a great partnership.

"Our aim this year is not to finish fourth from bottom we want to finish higher than that."