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West Ham sign goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on two-year deal

West Ham have signed goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on a free transfer.

Foderingham spent last season with Sheffield United, making 30 appearances as the club were relegated back to the Championship, and has now moved to the Hammers on a two-year deal.

The 33-year-old Englishman will provide competition for Alphonse Areola and Lukasz Fabianski.

Foderingham, born in Hammersmith, said: “It feels brilliant to be a Hammer. As soon as I heard of the interest, it was something that I was keen to get sorted and get done and I’m just delighted to be here.

“I've been fortunate to play for teams with a real strong fanbase, a fanbase that's passionate about their club, and West Ham are no different. They're a fanbase that care deeply about their football club, it’s a family club as well, and I find it's always better to play for a team where you have those supporters cheering you on week in, week out.

Wes Foderingham made 30 appearances for Sheffield United last season (Mike Egerton/PA Wire)
Wes Foderingham made 30 appearances for Sheffield United last season (Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

“Especially in the last few years, the club has had some really good success in Europe and in the Premier League as well. I think the club has gone from strength to strength and I think I'm joining at a very, very good time as it's a positive time for the club.”

Foderingham is West Ham’s second signing since Julen Lopetegui replaced David Moyes as manager, following the arrival of Brazilian teenager Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras in a deal worth up to £26million.

“We’re really pleased to add a goalkeeper of Wes’ experience to our first team goalkeeping unit”, said West Ham technical director Tim Steidten.

“He’s had an esteemed career to date, including playing at the very highest level in the Premier League last year for Sheffield United. I’m sure that under the guidance of Xavi Valero, both Alphonse and Lukasz will benefit greatly from having another established keeper working alongside them on a daily basis.”

Foderingham graduated through Fulham’s academy and later spent two years at Crystal Palace, but never made a senior appearance for either club.