Said Benrahma has joined West Ham United on an initial season-long loan from Brentford.
The Algerian forward has been a key player in Brentford's rise under Thomas Frank, scoring 30 times across the last two seasons and providing a further 27 assists.
It had been thought Benrahma would join West Ham on a permanent deal worth £25million (€27.5m), but reports circulated on Friday that the 25-year old had failed his medical.
An initial loan appears to be West Ham mitigating risk around Benrahma's signing.
Outrageous from Saïd Benrahma as Brentford beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup this evening 😲pic.twitter.com/fxBf00BiNz
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) October 1, 2020
"There has been a lot of interest shown in him so we are very pleased that he has decided to join us," said Hammers manager David Moyes
“We have been looking to bring in players who are hungry and determined to progress and get better. Saïd 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 Saïd 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.”
Benrahma hasn't been registered in time, however, for West Ham's Premier League trip to Tottenham on Sunday.
He only has five international caps to his name, but was involved in both of his country's recent friendlies with Nigeria and Mexico.
"I spoke to the manager, so I know exactly what he expects from me," Benrahma said upon his arrival.
"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.”
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