West Ham United have announced the signing of defender Walter Lopez on a free transfer after impressing caretaker manager Kevin Keen in training.

The 22-year-old Uruguayan international, who played for River Plate before leaving his homeland club, has the reputation of being an attack-minded left-back, who can also play in midfield. He has joined the Hammers on a one-year contract.

Keen said on the club’s official website: "Walter is a very attacking full-back who can get forward. Like David Di Michele, he is another West Ham-type player who will hopefully show everyone at the club what he can do."

Lopez added: "I am really happy to be here and I hope to have a good career. Upton Park is a beautiful stadium and it will be great to play for West Ham. I am looking forward to it. It is a great club and there are some great players at the club. I know about many of them like Lucas Neill and Craig Bellamy. Everyone here has made me feel very welcome.

"I watch the Premier League all the time on TV. It is the No1 league in the world, the best and it is great to be a part of it. I am very happy that I am here and I get to play for West Ham. The fans are very passionate and I hope to show them what I can do."