West Ham United have completed their first summer signing by making Venezuelan winger Keiber Lamadrid's loan move from Deportivo La Guaira permanent. The 22-year-old joined the club on loan in January with an option to buy, and after making one senior appearance against Burton Albion in the FA Cup, the club has triggered the £1 million buy option.
Lamadrid's Journey at West Ham
During his six-month loan spell, Lamadrid was named in three Premier League matchday squads but did not feature in the league. He played a more prominent role for the Under-21s, registering two goal contributions in three Premier League 2 appearances. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo gave the green light for the signing, with expectations that Lamadrid will challenge for first-team minutes next season. He has signed a five-year contract.
A club statement read: “Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Keiber on completing his transfer and wish him the best for his future career in Claret and Blue.”
Busy Transfer Window Ahead
This deal is the first completed by the men's side in what is expected to be a busy transfer window following their relegation to the Championship. West Ham are looking to raise funds, with Matheus Fernandes expected to net £80 million. The club has also confirmed the sale of Hungarian goalkeeper Krisztian Hegyi to Sparta Prague. The 23-year-old departs without having made a senior appearance in seven years with the club.
Women's Squad Strengthened
There has been early movement in the women's squad as well, with the Irons securing the signing of former Arsenal and Barcelona defender Laia Codina on a free transfer. The 26-year-old Codina, a three-time Champions League winner, helped Spain to World Cup glory in 2023 and has agreed a three-year deal with Rita Guarino's side in something of a transfer coup.
“We’re delighted to welcome a player of Laia’s quality to West Ham United,” said Guarino, who replaced Rehanne Skinner as the club’s head coach in December 2025. “To have won both the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Women’s Champions League is an outstanding achievement. She is a proven winner, and that mentality and experience will be a huge asset to this group.”
