Hammers land Piquionne and Barrera

West Ham have made French striker Frederic Piquionne their second signing of the day following the earlier arrival of Mexico winger Pablo Barrera.

Piquionne, who spent last season playing for new Hammers boss Avram Grant while on loan at Portsmouth, has joined for an undisclosed fee from Lyon.The 31-year-old has signed a three-year contract at Upton Park.

"I am very happy to sign for West Ham because my last manager was Avram," he told the club's website. "I know Avram and I like working with him and I think he likes me. I'm coming to work hard for the squad and I hope we have a good season."

He added: "Avram is a very, very good coach. Last year we had many problems at Portsmouth but we got to the FA Cup final. He's a very good manager.

"As a player, it will be good just to concentrate on my football. When I do that, I play well and play with passion. We have the players here to have a very good season."

Earlier, West Ham snapped up Mexico winger Barrera in a £4million deal with Pumas.

The 23-year-old has signed a four-year contract at Upton Park after passing a medical and receiving his work permit yesterday.

Barrera made three appearances at the World Cup, all as a substitute, as Mexico made it to the last 16.

"I am very happy to sign for West Ham United and have been really taken by the reception I have received from the players and the manager," Barrera told the club's website.

"I have had a great welcome. I knew about West Ham when I was in Mexico. They are a big club and I have heard about the great players they have had in the past. I have heard a lot more about the club and its traditions since I have been in London and I am very excited to be here."