Maiga completes West Ham move

The 24-year-old has been regularly linked with a move to English football and has now joined the Premier League new boy.

Maiga, who can play as a centre forward or on the wing, joins the Hammers for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal, with an option for a further two years.

"I am really happy and excited about joining West Ham United," he told the club's official website, www.whufc.com

"I know West Ham are a big club in England and I'm really looking forward to representing them.

"They have huge tradition and it is like joining part of a family and that is one of the main reasons I wanted to come here.

"I know some of the big names that have played for the club in the past and I am proud to be part of a new team back in the Premier League."

Maiga becomes West Ham's fifth signing since winning the Championship play-offs, after deals for Mohamed Diame, George McCartney, Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson.

The Mali international began his career with Stade Malien in his homeland aged 15, before moving on to Moroccan club Raja Casablanca in 2004.

Maiga moved to Ligue 1 side Le Mans three years later and then on to Sochaux, netting 16 goals in his first season with Les Lionceaux.

The Bamako-born striker scored nine times in 23 league appearances last season and looked close to a move to Newcastle United before reportedly failing a medical.

Maiga becomes the second Malian to represent West Ham, after fellow forward Frederic Kanoute. He has scored five goals in 31 appearances for the national team.