Wellington Paulista to join West Ham

Brazil Serie A club Cruzeiro have confirmed that forward Wellington Paulista is on his way to West Ham on loan.

The club’s director of football Alexandre Mattos has agreed terms with the East London outfit following an agreement made during the January transfer window.

Mattos has spoken highly of the 28-year old, praising his professionalism and loyalty to the Brazilian side and suggesting he has a future with the club.

“Cruzeiro is grateful to Wellington, and the great professional that he is,” Mattos said.

“The players always honoured this club, and we like him very much. He has the club’s doors open for the future.”

Paulista has scored 19 goals in all competitions so far this campaign and strengthens Sam Allardyce’s striking options even further.

The Hammers have already signed Joe Cole from Liverpool and Marouane Chamakh from Arsenal during the transfer window.