Hammers sign Mali forward Maiga

West Ham have completed the signing of Modibo Maiga from Sochaux on a long-term deal.

The 24-year-old Mali international has been regularly linked with a move to English football and has today joined the Barclays Premier League new boys.

Maiga, who can play as a centre forward or on the wing, joins the Hammers for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal, with an option for a further two years.

“I am really happy and excited about joining West Ham United,'' he told the club's official website, www.whufc.com.

“I know West Ham are a big club in England and I’m really looking forward to representing them.

“They have huge tradition and it is like joining part of a family and that is one of the main reasons I wanted to come here.

“I know some of the big names that have played for the club in the past and I am proud to be part of a new team back in the Premier League.”

Maiga becomes West Ham’s fifth signing since winning the npower Championship play-offs, following deals for Mohamed Diame, George McCartney, Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson.