Pablo Fornals adds new dimension to West Ham after £24million switch, says Manuel Pellegrini

New face | Manuel Pellegrini is confident Pablo Fornals will offer a different dimension to his side
AFP/Getty Images

Manuel Pellegrini says new signing Pablo Fornals can bring a ‘new dimension’ to the West Ham midfield after his £24million switch from Villarreal.

The Spanish midfielder, currently in Italy for the U21 European Championships, signed a five-year-deal with the Hammers last week and has already targeted a Europa League finish with his new club next season.

Fornals, 23, fits the ‘technical’ midfield mould of which Pellegrini is such a big fan, having added Felipe Anderson and Jack Wilshere in his first summer at the club.

Despite already having an array of talent in midfield, Pellegrini is confident Fornals, who he and sporting director Mario Husillos have tracked for a number of months, can offer something new.

“He was a key target we identified some time ago and it is a big positive that we have managed to complete the deal early in the transfer window,” Pellegrini said. “I would like to thank the board for their support and work in completing the transfer.

“Pablo is a young, hungry and talented player who has already proven his ability at the highest level in Spain, and we believe he will bring a different dimension and a strong mentality to the team. He has made a big impact in his time with Villarreal and we look forward to seeing him continue his progress here.

“His signing means that we now have very good midfield options in the squad. With players coming back from injury and ready to begin pre-season training with the rest of the squad, we have a very good balance and mix of styles.

Unveiled | Pablo Fornals dons the new West Ham away kit
West Ham United via Getty Images

“We wish Pablo good luck with Spain in the Under-21 European Championships this coming week, and I am sure our supporters will give him a very warm welcome when he begins what we hope will be a long and successful career at West Ham United.”

Fornals came off the bench as Spain U21s lost 3-1 to Italy in their opening European Championships game on Sunday night.

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