West Ham sign Fornals from Villarreal

West Ham United has signed Spanish midfielder Pablo Fornals on a five-year contract from Villarreal.

At around £24million, the 23-year-old is the Hammers’ second most expensive signing of all time, behind Felipe Anderson.

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

“I want the club to continue giving opportunities to 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.”

West Ham United FC have uploaded a new video… #WelcomeFornals pic.twitter.com/HvCowMvc7E

— West Ham United (@WestHamUtd) June 14, 2019

West Ham has an option to extend Fornals’ contract by 12 months.

Fornals will join up with his new teammates after representing Spain at this summer’s UEFA European U21 Championship finals in Italy.