Done deal: West Ham sign Villarreal midfielder Pablo Fornals

West Ham United have completed the signing of midfielder Pablo Fornals from Villarreal, it has been confirmed by the club.

The 23-year-old has agreed a five-year contract with the Hammers and whilst no official fee was announced, the English say he is the second most expensive signing in their history behind Felipe Anderson.

Varying reports had placed the midfielder’s release clause between €25m and €30m, with estimations that a deal was concluded for €27m.

The Hammers had also been linked with Eibar's Joan Jordan and Barcelona midfielder Andre Gomes – who spent the 2018-19 season on loan at domestic rivals Everton – but they have no turned their attentions to the Spain international.

“I’m very happy to be part of West Ham,” Fornals told West Ham’s official website. “I feel very good, very happy and very grateful for the opportunity that has been provided to me.

“I want the club to continue betting on young and ambitious people, people who want to do well for the long term.

“I know about the loyal fans and the stadium, which is a beautiful stadium. The fans fill the stadium every weekend and that is something admirable, especially with the passion with which football is lived there. I think it is important to play with the support of your fans at home.

“I have worked with Mario (Husillos, the Hammers sporting director) before – I know him from when I was in Malaga.

“With Manuel (Pellegrini), only when I saw him and admired him on TV. Of course, Manuel was a big influence because in the end he is one of the best coaches in the world and who doesn’t want to work with people like that?!”

Tags Pablo Fornals
La Liga - Club News