Nottingham Forest receive Mainz transfer message as Moussa Niakhate deal confirmed

Mainz fans have given Moussa Niakhate an emotional farewell after the captain completed his transfer to Nottingham Forest.

The 26-year-old has joined Forest on an initial three-year deal from the Bundesliga club, where he was captain and a true favourite among supporters. He made 135 appearances for the top-flight side and was heavily linked with a number of Premier League clubs before Forest secured his signature.

In messages bidding their captain goodbye on social media, supporters described Niakhate as a "true icon", with several saying the deal had "broken their heart". He was flooded with messages of thanks and good luck. Below is a look at what some of the German club's fanbase had to say.

: Nottingham fans can expect nothing but greatness. Would have become a true legend here. Selfless leader, true captain, defence beast! Great character. True icon imho! Deserves just the best and hopefully Nottingham is only the next step in a big career.

: Thank you for everything. Once a Mainzer always a Mainzer

: Unfortunately it was clear, thanks for everything moussa

: Take care, Moussa! All the best and hope to see you soon. We will miss you very much.

: I even think Nottingham is a bit below his level. Think of the talent he could have played in the Euro or Conference League. But that doesn't change the fact that we will miss him very much as a person and as a sport

: Sad to see him go. A class player for Mainz05.

: Actually it was clear and yet it breaks my 05 heart. All the best!

: Farewell my captain