Tuesday 5 June 2018 17:47, UK
West Ham have confirmed the signing of right-back Ryan Fredericks from Fulham.
The 25-year-old has signed a four-year contract to become new manager Manuel Pellegrini's first signing when his present terms with Fulham expire from July 1.
"It's amazing for this deal to finally happen," Fredericks told his new club's official website. "I know we've been speaking about it for a while and trying to get things in place and finally, we've got it over the line. I'm just buzzing to be here.
"West Ham United is one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League. Everyone knows the history of West Ham and there's a lot of factors that brought me to the club.
"Obviously, it's an exciting time for West Ham. The club have just brought in a new manager in Manuel Pellegrini and everyone knows his CV and what he has done in England before and in other leagues as well. I'm sure I can learn a lot from him."
Fredericks missed just four of Fulham's 52 matches in all competitions last season as he helped them win promotion to the Premier League and was named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year.
Pellegrini feels Fredericks is still improving and is looking forward to working with him.
The Chilean said: "I am very pleased to welcome Ryan to West Ham United as our first signing this summer. He joins having had a successful season with Fulham and is a player who will bring great qualities to our squad.
"He has good experience, with more than 150 senior appearances already but, at 25, he is still a young player with his best years ahead of him.
"Ryan has good character, is hungry to succeed, and has shown me that he has great desire to be a West Ham United player. I look forward to working with him."
