Wilshere has signed a three-year deal with West Ham.
West Ham have completed the signing of Jack Wilshere on a free transfer from Arsenal and director of football Mario Husillos has told the club’s official website that the midfielder was a player on his and Manuel Pellegrini’s shortlist since they took office.
Wilshere, 26, has signed a contract with the Hammers that will him remain at the London Stadium until the summer of 2021, after his contract with London rivals Arsenal expired.
New Gunners boss Unai Emery decided not to offer the England international a new deal, because of the midfielder’s injury history and the belief that the Gunners are set to sign Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi (Sky Sports).
Argentine Husillos, who joined the Hammers this summer following the appointment of Pellegrini, believes the signing of Wilshere will be a positive one for West Ham.
“Manuel and I identified him as a target as soon as we joined the Club and we are delighted to have succeeded in securing Jack’s signature above a number of other teams,” Husillos said.
“Jack is a player with vast experience and quality at the highest level, having played all of his career in the Premier League. On the biggest stage, he has shown that he has game-changing abilities, as well as having the creativity and intelligence to make a real difference to our squad.
“He is a passionate man and has shown winning characteristics throughout his career. Jack will be a great addition and we look forward to seeing his undoubted quality in a West Ham United shirt over the coming years as we fight for important goals at the Club.”
West Ham have been after a new central midfielder for quite some time, with the likes of Tom Cairney, Leander Dendoncker and Jonjo Shelvey being linked with the Hammers of late.
At times under David Moyes, West Ham were left with just Mark Noble, Cheikhou Kouyate and rookie Josh Cullen, with Pedro Obiang and Edimilson Fernandes left to choose from.
But now, the signing of Wilshere gives West Ham top Premier League quality in the middle of the park as well as cover.
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