Aaron Wan-Bissaka Joins West Ham From Manchester United

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, a defender for Manchester United, has officially joined West Ham.

The right-back signs a seven-year contract for an unreported amount believed to be around £15 million.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be back in London, and I’m excited for what’s coming. I was born here, so I know the ins and outs of London, which plays a big part in my life, so to be back playing in this city means a lot to me.

“I’m happy to be here, am grateful for the warm welcome, and I am excited to be playing for the club and will give it my all.

“I can’t wait to get on the pitch, get to know the players, and push on from there. I see a team that is in it together, that will push each other to win, and a group that has got each others’ backs through thick and thin, so being part of that and having that insurance helps a lot when you are surrounded by a good squad.”

West Ham technical director Tim Steidten added: “I am delighted we’ve been able to get the deal to sign Aaron over the line. He’s exactly the type of player we’re looking to attract to this club in the prime years of his career.

“He’s an incredibly talented defender who we rate very highly – superb in one-on-one situations. He’s versatile too, which is clearly another positive. He’s played over 170 Premier League games during his career – he knows the division inside-out.

“It’s a really exciting time for us as we prepare for the start of the new season this weekend.”

Wan-Bissaka left Crystal Palace to join Manchester United in June 2019. During his 190 appearances for the team across all competitions, he won the EFL Cup and the FA Cup at Old Trafford.

After passing a physical, Noussair Mazraoui is expected to replace him at Old Trafford. He is close to joining from Bayern Munich.

The Moroccan international Mazraoui and Erik ten Hag’s team reached a £17.2 million agreement with Bayern that included a £12.9 million transfer price and £4.3 million in performance-related add-ons.

After completing a medical, defender Matthijs de Ligt is also nearing a contract with Manchester United.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli