West Ham have completed the £6million signing of Alessandro Diamanti from Livorno on a five‑year contract.

The Hammers had planned to fund the transfer through player sales but it is understood they have been given an advance payment by sponsors SBOBet to buy the 26-year-old striker.

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola had been tracking Diamanti for several months and badly needed to strengthen his forward line. The only senior striker fit at Upton Park at present is Carlton Cole, with Dean Ashton a notable absentee through injury.

Diamanti said: “I am very happy to be at West Ham and to get the chance to play for Gianfranco Zola. The club have the tradition of playing great football. The fans are really passionate and that is the way I am.”

Scott Duxbury, the club's chief executive, said: “I am delighted we have been able to secure this transfer at last as we feel that Alessandro will be a perfect complement to our existing attacking options.

“It has been a case of working around the clock to ensure we landed another of our key targets. We are grateful for the supporters' understanding of what we are trying to achieve with our exciting squad.”