West Ham United have sealed the transfer of right-sided defender Guy Demal from German club Hamburg for an undisclosed fee.
The 30-year-old Ivory Coast international has signed a two-year contract at Upton Park with the option of a further year.
"I have some friends here already like Freddie Piquionne and Carlton Cole, and London is a great city," Demal told the club's official website. "I am very happy to be here. I know the players here want the same as me. Everyone is determined to make it a successful season and this is a great opportunity.
"I had ten years in Germany and I won the title. But it is time to change and show what I can do in another country. I will do my best.
"It is a good stadium and I am also looking forward to the future. I would like to go to the new stadium with West Ham. Something big is happening here and I want to be a part of an exciting time in the club's history. I know the fans are very passionate."
Demal has become Hammers' manager Sam Allardyce's 12th signing of the summer.
Liam Apicella
