West Ham United have completed the signing of Spain international Pablo Fornals.
The attacking midfielder, 23, has previously been linked with Arsenal but has now opted to head to their Premier League rivals.
Fornals emerged as one of La Liga's top talents after a stunning season with Villarreal during which he impressed with his creativity.
He already has two senior Spain caps and is currently with his country preparing for the UEFA European U21 Championship finals this summer.
Whilst an exact fee has not been revealed, West Ham confirmed Fornals has become their second most-expensive signing behind £36m man Felipe Anderson.
The deal is reported to be in the region of £25m with Fornals penning a long-term five-year contract with an option of a further 12 months.
“I’m very happy to be part of West Ham,” Fornals told whufc.com .
“I feel very good, very happy and very grateful for the opportunity that has been provided to me.
“I want the club to continue giving opportunities to young and ambitious people, people who want to do well for the long term.
“I know about the loyal fans and the stadium, which is a beautiful stadium. The fans fill the stadium every weekend and that is something admirable, especially with the passion with which football is lived there. I think it is important to play with the support of your fans at home.”
Fornals' move sees him link up with director of football Mario Husillos, who oversaw his progress at Malaga as he made his senior debut, aged 19, in 2015.
Fornals added: “I have worked with Mario before - I know him from when I was in Malaga.
"With Manuel (Pellegrini), only when I saw him and admired him on TV.
"Of course, Manuel was a big influence because in the end he is one of the best coaches in the world and who doesn’t want to work with people like that?!”
West Ham have already signed goalkeepers David Martin and Roberto but have their first outfield acquisition.
