West Ham wrap up £5m Behrami deal

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The 23-year-old can play at right-back or in midfield and has joined on a five-year deal.

Behrami, who has 15 caps, played in all three of his country's matches at Euro 2008 and was a regular for Lazio, appearing in last season's Champions League.

"It is a dream come true to play for the club and in the Premier League," he said. "I am looking forward to becoming part of the team here.

"When I spoke with West Ham after Euro 2008 I was very pleased to see what they wanted from me and what their plans are for the future. It was something that enabled me to make my decision very quickly."

Behrami's arrival could mean West Ham are now willing to sell their captain Lucas Neill to Manchester City, who are also interested in Craig Bellamy.

City manager Mark Hughes sold both players while in charge of Blackburn but is now keen to be reunited with them.

Hughes, who also worked with Bellamy while manager of Wales, is pondering an £8m bid for the striker.

However, West Ham are keen to hold on to the ex-Liverpool star.

They have already sold Bobby Zamora to Fulham, and boss Alan Curbishley sees Bellamy as one of his four main strikers along with Dean Ashton, Freddie Sears and Carlton Cole.

West Ham's chief executive Scott Duxbury said: "We are committed to strengthening our squad. Contrary to some reports, there will not be a mass exodus."