WEST HAM have announced the signing of Nayef Aguerd from Ligue 1 side Stade Rennes.

The defender becomes the club's first signing of the summer transfer window as they look to strengthen the team ahead of another season in which they will be competing in European football.

The 26-year-old central defender brings with him experience of playing top flight football in France and in the Europa Conference League.

Last season, Aguerd made 40 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and assisting three more.

He helped Rennes defensively as he contributed towards 14 clean sheets when on the pitch.

The Moroccan international passed his medical with the Hammers last week and agreed to his contract over the weekend. Aguerd's deal with West Ham will run for five-years with an option to extend for a further year.

It is believed that West Ham have paid a fee of £30 million plus add-ons to Rennes, making Aguerd one of the club's record transfers into the club.

Upon joining the club, Aguerd said: “I was really excited when I heard about West Ham United's interest.

“When I heard about it, I knew I needed to go to the Premier League, because it’s a dream for every player.

“West Ham is a historic Club. I saw a few of their games this year, and I saw the fans and the atmosphere were fantastic, with the bubbles!

“I talked with the manager and he showed me that he was very interested, so it was easy to choose to come to West Ham.”