West Ham have completed the signing of Demba Ba from German side Hoffenheim.
The rock-bottom Hammers have capitalised on the collapse of Ba’s proposed move to Stoke City, reportedly striking a deal that could eventually reach the £6m mark.
And the 25-year-old forward, who has penned a three-and-a-half-year deal, told the club’s official website: “It was a long story but now I'm happy because it had a really good end and I am glad to be here.
“I'm going to give everything to West Ham United. I have made the move to West Ham and I'm very happy. I'm definitely excited to be playing in the Premier League.
“I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement.
“I was eager to join the club and meet my new team-mates. I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join this team. I thank my family and all my fans for their support.”
Ba went AWOL from a Hoffenheim training camp earlier this month as he attempted to force a switch to the Premier League, but the Senegal international failed a Stoke medical and the Bundesliga side subsequently refused a loan request from the Potters.