It was anticipated that Frings, 34, would retire, but he revealed a conversation with former Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann made him decide to sign a two-year contract with Toronto, despite interest from other clubs.

"I first came in touch with Toronto FC via Jurgen Klinsmann," Frings told Kicker. "He just told me good things about the club. Then I soon came to the conclusion I want to be at Toronto FC and help the club improve.

"I had several offers and enquiries from clubs in Europe, in the United States, in the UAE as well as from the Bundesliga.

"Some looked lovely, some appeared lucrative. Anyway, it was the challenge of playing overseas that tempted me most. I was impressed and the whole package was just right."

The Canadian club have also agreed a deal with former AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven forward Danny Koevermans, who had been linked with a move to npower Championship side Birmingham.