West Ham sign Areola on loan from PSG

West Ham have completed the loan signing of French goalkeeper Alphonse Areola from Paris Saint-Germain.

The France international joins the Irons on an initial season-long deal, with the option to make the transfer permanent in the summer of 2022.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper impressed in his loan at Fulham last season where he won the Supporters Player of the Year award, despite the Cottagers getting relegated.

“I’m happy,” said Areola to the club's media team. “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. 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."

The World Cup winner in 2018 brings more experience into the squad after more than 250 career appearances for the likes of PSG and Real Madrid, winning four Ligue 1 and La Liga titles.

Welcome to West Ham United, @AreolaOfficiel! 👋 #AA13 pic.twitter.com/dVkVnYXr8B

— West Ham United (@WestHam) July 29, 2021