‘Deal done’ – West Ham confirm £12m transfer for ‘terrific’ player

West Ham United has confirmed the transfer of Said Benrahma to Olympique Lyonnais, bringing an end to the Algerian winger’s four-year spell at the London Stadium.

The 28-year-old moved to West Ham from Brentford in 2020 and went on to make 155 appearances for the club, scoring 24 goals and registering 20 assists.Benrahma’s time at West Ham was marked by moments of brilliance, including his penalty in the UEFA Europa Conference League final win over Fiorentina in June 2023. His talent was hailed as “terrific” by former manager David Moyes, and he played a key role in the Hammers’ success during his time at the club.

The transfer is reportedly worth £12.3 million, with West Ham retaining a 10% sell-on clause on any future transfer profit made by Lyon. Benrahma has signed a three-year deal with the Ligue 1 side, with an option for an additional 12 months.The move is seen as a smart piece of business by West Ham, who cashed in on Benrahma’s value to help fund manager Julen Lopetegui’s summer spending plans. The Hammers are preparing for their first season under Lopetegui’s leadership, and the transfer fee will be used to bolster the squad ahead of the new campaign.

Benrahma’s departure is a significant one for West Ham, but the club’s statement thanked him for his contribution and wished him well for the future. The Algerian international will be remembered fondly by Hammers fans for his skill and dedication on the pitch.In conclusion, Said Benrahma’s transfer to Olympique Lyonnais marks the end of an era at West Ham United.

The talented winger will be missed, but his contribution to the club’s success will not be forgotten. As West Ham looks to the future under Julen Lopetegui’s leadership, the transfer fee will be used to build a strong squad capable of competing in the Premier League.