West Ham United sign Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning midfielder Guido Rodriguez on free transfer from Real Betis

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West Ham United have signed Guido Rodriguez, part of Argentina's World Cup-winning squad in 2022, on a free transfer on a two-year deal.

The 30-year-old had been a free agent after his contract with Real Betis expired earlier in the summer and had reportedly attracted interest from several other clubs, including Barcelona and Fenerbahce.

As well as being part of the Argentina side that lifted the title in Qatar, Rodriguez was also a member of the squad that won the Copa America this summer and in 2021.

He told the club's official website: “I’m very happy to be here. I feel like it’s every footballer’s dream to play in the Premier League, and I was very excited when I heard that West Ham were interested in me. “It’s a historic club, that has a really interesting project. I think it’s the right club for me, at the right time, and I hope together we can keep growing.

“I spoke to Edson [Alvarez] before signing, and we’re both really looking forward to working together again.

“I will help the team in any way I can. I will bring experience to the team, and though I’m aware the Premier League is very physical, I’m ready to put the work in to make sure I’m up to the task.

“What I can say to the fans is that I will give them everything. I’m very motivated, and I think together with the supporters we can achieve many good things. I just can’t wait to get going now!”

The move is a coup for Julen Lopetegui's West Ham, who swooped in to sign the player after talks with Barcelona broke down following manager Xavi's exit.

New manager Hansi Flick reportedly did not share Xavi's interest in the signing and now Rodriguez is heading to London Stadium.

Rodriguez plays as a holding midfielder and is hoped to significantly strengthen the Hammers' midfield, a key target for this transfer window.

He scored two goals in 22 appearances for Real Betis in La Liga last season and was viewed as one of the best No. 6s in the Spanish top flight, although his minutes for the national side have been limited in recent years and he did not play a starring role in the Qatar campaign.

West Ham have had a busy summer window so far, signing young Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme, experienced goalkeeper Wes Foderingham and former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Max Kilman for £40 million.

More recently, they signed Crysencio Summerville from Leeds United, and Borussia Dortmund's Champions League runner-up Niclas Fullkrug.

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