Franco claims Hammers deal

Mexico striker Guillermo Franco claims he is set to join West Ham United in order to fulfil his dream of playing in England. The former Villarreal player is a free agent after his contract with the Primera Liga side expired in August. Franco was on the verge of signing a contract with South American champions Estudiantes, but his return to Mexico collapsed. However, the 32-year-old has now announced that he is joining West Ham as Gianfranco Zola bids to end a summer-long search for attacking options. The Guardian quotes Franco as saying: "Imagine how I feel after so much criticism for not having a team, but thank God my dream has come true to play in England. "This is a new step, a new cycle with big challenges in a very strong league." But Franco's agent has told Sky Sports News that the forward is still in talks with at least five clubs.

Source: SKY_Sports