West Ham United have signed Argentina international defensive midfielder Guido Rodriguez. The World Cup winner joins the Hammers on a free transfer after leaving Spanish side Real Betis.
The 30-year-old has signed a three-year deal with the Hammers that runs until 2027 and will provide cover for former teammate Edson Alvarez.
“I am very happy to be here,” Rodriguez said (via the official club website). “I feel like it is 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 is a historic club that has a really interesting project. I think it is the right club for me at the right time, and I hope together we can keep growing. I spoke to Edson before signing, and we are both really looking forward to working together again.”
Rodriguez is a defensive midfielder with a wealth of experience. He has enjoyed a stellar career, lifting the World Cup in 2022 and two Copa America titles with his country. He also won the Finalissima.
The former River Plate and Club America man brings proven quality to Julen Lopetegui’s side.
Rodriguez can partner with Alvarez or cover for him in the starting XI. Rodriguez will likely take the starting berth initially, with the former Ajax man only just returning from a hamstring injury suffered during the Copa America.
Rodriguez’s arrival marks the sixth summer signing for the Hammers, following the additions of Max Kilman, Luis Guilherme, Wes Foderingham, Crysencio Summerville, and Niclas Fullkrug.
Excellent business from the Hammers
The Irons have done some excellent business this summer. They continued that trend with the Rodriguez signing.
West Ham are getting a veteran defensive midfielder with European and international pedigree on a free transfer.
He has the quality to start week in and week out and can also take a spot on the bench to accommodate others.