A host of Premier League clubs had emerged as rivals to West Ham over the weekend, with Sunderland, Everton, Fulham and West Brom all making late moves. The 25-year-old saw a move to Stoke collapse earlier in the month, but now West Ham - who were the first club to make an approach for him - have finalised a deal. The loan signing will be a huge boost to manager Avram Grant, who is looking to bring in a few more new faces before next week's deadline. "I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement," Ba said on demba-ba.eu. "I was eager to join the club and meet my new team-mates. I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join that team. I thank my family and all my fans for their support." The website reported that, after signing his contract in the morning, Ba was due to train with his new team-mates in the afternoon. The Senegal international had earlier this month appeared set for a move to Stoke only for the deal to fall through because of a failed medical.
