Pellegrini hails Anderson & Balbuena arrivals as summer business continues

Manuel Pellegrini

West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini has welcomed Felipe Anderson and Fabian Balbuena to the Club, saying their arrival will add plenty to his squad.

Club record signing Anderson heads to east London having spent five years in Italy with Lazio and Pellegrini is excited by the different option he will bring to his attacking line.

While Paraguay international defender Balbuena signs from Brazilian side Corinthians, taking the number of summer signings up to seven, and the manager is keen to begin work with his new boys.

“I am delighted to welcome Felipe and Fabian to West Ham United,” Pellegrini said. “We have been watching both players for some time and were determined to bring them to the club.

We are very happy with the players we have signed since I arrived and it gives us a big confidence ahead of the new season

Manuel Pellegrini

“Felipe has a very natural and skilful ability, in the traditional style of Brazilian football, but has proven at Lazio that he also has the strength and mentality to play at the top level in European football.

“We feel he will bring a new dimension to the squad but also complement the attacking players we already have.

“Fabian is a strong and talented defender who has shown great leadership qualities with Corinthians in Brazil. He is ready to prove his quality on a bigger stage and I believe he has the right character to succeed in the Premier League."

Anderson and Balbuena follow Ryan Fredericks, Issa Diop, Lukasz Fabianski, Jack Wilshere and Anrdriy Yarmolenko in making their way to east London this summer and Pellegrini is delighted with the business done.

“We are very happy with the players we have signed since I arrived and it gives us a big confidence ahead of the new season," he added.

“The club have made a very big investment this summer and I must thank the owners for their support and backing.

“It has been a very successful week for us with the arrival of four new players, and we look forward to implementing their qualities into our plans and preparations.”