WEST HAM have signed Wolves captain Max Kilman in a move that sees the defender reunited with former manager Julen Lopetegui after the Spaniard bowed out of Molineux on the eve of the last Premier League season.
The 27-year-old centre-half has arrived at the London Stadium on a seven-year deal.
No fee was disclosed but British media reports said the deal between the two Premier League clubs was worth £40 million (€47 million).
“It’s an amazing feeling to be a West Ham United player,” Kilman told his new team’s website.
“As soon as I was aware of the interest from the club, it was an opportunity I was keen to pursue, so I couldn’t be more delighted to be here.
“I really enjoyed working with Julen during his time at Wolves — he’s a top-class coach and someone I learned a lot from, and I am confident I will continue to improve as a player under his management here.
“West Ham is a massive club and I feel this is the natural next step forward in my career.”
Kilman, who underwent a successful medical on Friday, spent six years in the Midlands, making 151 appearances in all competitions, after costing Wolves just £40,000 (€47,000) from Maidenhead.
Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs told the club’s website: “It’s bittersweet for me, having brought Max in, but it feels like a deal which works for everybody.
“We’re getting a good fee and unbelievable return on investment, West Ham are getting a homegrown left-sided centre-back and it’s a good story for Maidenhead. While it was tough, it also allows Max to get closer to his family in London.”
West Ham finished ninth in the Premier League last season, with Wolves in 14th place.
Been long overdue . Hopefully clubs get behind this . If they don’t they will be left behind . It’s time for football to move forward .
Why are they starting it in august and having a mini season?
It is a good idea in principle. I’m not sure if non-league clubs will be interested though as it will put extra financial burden on them.
@Joe O’Regan: I guess a dry run
Will we ever see an All Ireland League?
@Der Calnan: hope not
@patsfan1166: only thing that will save both leagues long term, and drive audiences (Grounds & TV). 2/3 of the best teams on the island are South of the border, and the gap between top of LOI & IL and bottom teams is usually massive. A two tier All Island League with twelve fully pro in the Prem (competing for decent prize money) and 18 semi pro teams split into North & South Divisions is the way forward..
Hahaha
Why would clubs be interested? Although it’s regionalised it would mean Cork clubs travelling to Limerick and Tipperary and vice versa. Expense would mount up
What would happen to the Munster senior league and the various leagues around the country