Marko Arnautovic joins West Ham from Stoke in club-record deal

By Dev Trehan

Image: Marko Arnautovic is now a West Ham player

West Ham have completed the signing of Marko Arnautovic from Stoke for a club-record fee.

Arnautovic came through his medical on Friday and becomes West Ham boss Slaven Bilic's third summer signing following the arrival of Joe Hart on loan and Pablo Zabaleta on a free transfer.

The Austrian attacker has penned a five-year deal and told West Ham's official website he cannot wait to play for the club's supporters.

"It feels special to me to be a West Ham player," Arnautovic said.

"Everyone knows that West Ham is a big club, with a big history and I'm happy to be a part of it now. I can't wait to get started.

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"I played against West Ham at the old stadium - I didn't play last year at the new stadium because I was suspended - but I came to the game and I can only say it is a massive club with a lot of fans.

"They are crazy for football and this is what I like. The club is still growing, getting better and better and that's why I'm here."

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Image: Andre Ayew was West Ham's record signing prior to Arnautovic's arrival

West Ham co-chairman, David Sullivan, added: "We're delighted to have completed Marko's transfer from Stoke City.

"Alongside Pablo Zabaleta and Joe Hart we have brought in three players with vast Premier League experience this summer, and that was one of our key targets as we look ahead to the new season.

"Marko will bring plenty of quality to our front line and I'm excited to see him in a claret and blue shirt."

Image: Arnautovic is one of Austria's most recognisable sports personalities

Arnautovic scored 26 goals during four seasons at Stoke after joining the club from German Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in 2013.

He has won 62 caps for Austria and played in all three of his country's matches at Euro 2016. The 28-year-old has already registered three goals for Austria in their opening six 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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