West Ham United have completed the signing of Said Benrahma on loan with an obligation to buy the player next summer after protracted deadline day talks. West Ham will pay an initial £5m for the winger’s signature and a further £20m at the end of the season.
David Moyes dismissed reports that the 25-year-old Algerian international had complications during his medical examination on Friday morning, as the deal switched from a permanent move to a loan. Reports suggested the transfer could fall through, but after West Ham submitted a request for an extension to the 5pm deadline, Benrahma signed just in time.
Benrahma was part of a prolific front three which fired Brentford to the Championship play-off final last season, scoring 17 goals and making nine assists. He will add competition and added firepower to West Ham’s in-form trio of Jarrod Bowen, Michail Antonio and Pablo Fornals.
“I’m very, very happy to be a part of this team,” said Benrahma, who will wear the No9 shirt. “West Ham is a historic club, which has been in the Premier League for a very long time. It included and still includes good players. It’s a massive club in England.
“I spoke to the manager, so I know exactly what he expects from me. I’ll try to meet his expectations on the pitch because he’s put faith in me and hopefully I can give it back on the pitch.
“I like this prospect [of playing in the Premier League]. I play football to enjoy myself first and foremost, but it’s always enjoyable to know you’re joining the most-watched league in the world, so I’m definitely looking forward to showing what I can do.”
Moyes said Benrahma will bring a different dimension to his attacking options.
“I’m delighted to welcome Said to West Ham United,” he confirmed. “He is a player who has had a lot of recognition for his performances with Brentford in the Championship. There has been a lot of interest shown in him so we are very pleased that he has decided to join us.
“We have been looking to bring in players who are hungry and determined to progress and get better. Said is an exciting talent with a lot of ability and the right qualities, who will complement the other attacking players we have at the club.
“We need to give Said some time to settle in, but the step up to the Premier League is one I am confident he will be able to make. We are really pleased to have him here and looking forward to getting the best out of him.”
