West Ham have sealed a deal for their first major summer transfer with Alphonse Areola joining from Paris Saint-Germain. The 28-year-old goalkeeper joins the Hammers on a season-long loan with an option to make the move permanent in the summer of 2022. Areola is delighted to continue in the Premier League and is looking forward to competing in European football for West Ham.
Alphonse Areola said: “I’m happy. For me it was the best opportunity to sign for this club, to sign for West Ham and to try my best to help the team. London is a great place to live and to work as well, and obviously the Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world so I really enjoyed it last season. It was tough for me and for the team, but I enjoyed playing in the Premier League.”
One thing the goalkeeper cannot wait to experience is life in England with fans back in the stadiums.
Alphonse Areola said: “We were without the fans, but this year we will have the fans back so I can’t wait to see the atmosphere. West Ham did a big season last year. Obviously we have the Europa League and the Premier League and the two cups, so it will be a tough season and a long season but I think we’re going to enjoy it all together. We have a really good squad. I watched games last season so I know the potential and the talent in this squad, so I can’t wait to start.”
David Moyes was delighted with the capture of such an experienced goalkeeper, having kept tabs on the 28-year-old for some time.
David Moyes said: “Alphonse is an experienced and talented goalkeeper who has played at the highest level and performed very well in the Premier League last season. As we prepare for a very busy schedule, he will provide fantastic competition for the goalkeepers already at the football club and we are going to need to use our squad to ensure compete to the best of our abilities across all competitions. We have been aware of his qualities for a long time and we have no doubt he will be another player and character who will enhance our squad. We welcome Alphonse to West Ham United and look forward to working with him.”
