West Ham announce Lanzini capture

West Ham have announced the signing of Al Jazira playmaker Manuel Lanzini on a season-long loan deal, with a view to a permanent switch.

The 22-year-old moved to the United Arab Emirates in 2014 and made 24 appearances in the Arabian Gulf League last season, scoring eight goals as Al Jazira finished runners-up to Al Ain.

And the former River Plate youngster has now become West Ham’s seventh close-season signing.

“This is very emotional because it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for,” Lanzini told the club’s official website. “It is a very important step for my career and for my future.

“I am looking forward to what is a new era for me. I’m very happy and I look forward to meeting my new team-mates. 

“This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in the future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, so I am looking forward to getting started.

“I am someone who always gives 100 per cent. I’m an attacking player, I can change the game’s tempo and I hope to give my maximum for the fans to appreciate me.”