Wellington Paulista signs six-month loan deal

West Ham United have completed the signing of Brazilian striker Wellington Paulista on a six-month loan.

The 29-year-old, who is contracted to Brazilian Serie A club Cruzeiro will remain in East London for the rest of the 2012/13 campaign with the option of a three-year contract thereafter.

Speaking to West Ham TV, Paulista said: "I am really happy to be here at West Ham United. Everyone has been very kind to me since I have been at the club this week.

"I think I can do my best here and I am coming to England to prove to everyone that I am one of the best strikers in Brazil and to get better and better. I am strong, I am a fighter and I can score with both feet.

"I run a lot on the pitch and I can play as either as first or second striker."

KUMB.com revealed last week that West Ham had agreed a deal to take the player on loan after Cruzeiro director of football Alexandre Mattos confirmed that the player was on his way to England.

"Cruzeiro would like to thank Wellington a lot, he is a great professional," said Mattos. "He always honoured and liked Cruzeiro a lot, as Cruzeiro liked him also. The clubs doors are always open for him."

News of Paulista's move to England met with mixed reports from fans of his parent club; whilst some wished him well, others were delighted to part company with a player whom one described as "a ridiculous player".