Hammers secure Sekou deal

West Ham made a deadline-day swoop for midfielder Sekou Baradji from Le Mans but immediately sent the Frenchman out on loan to Coca-Cola Championship side Reading.

The Hammers signed Baradji on a permanent deal on Wednesday but are keen for him to gain some experience of English football, so Alan Pardew has agreed to let the 21-year-old join his old club until January.

Baradji, a left-footed midfielder who can also operate in defence, is a former France youth international and will provide cover for the Royals following a recent spate of injuries.

Reading director of football Nick Hammond said: “Sekou is an athletic and mobile player who has trained with us for one day and looks a very good footballer.

“West Ham were keen to sign him but want him to gain some experience here, and I am appreciative to Alan Pardew that he has allowed him to join us. He will give us another option over the next few months.”

The move is subject to approval from the Football Association, Premier League and Football League.