The 23-year-old can play at right-back or in midfield and has signed a five-year deal with the Barclays Premier League club after passing a medical.

Behrami, who signed for a fee of £5million has 15 caps, played in all three of his country's matches at Euro 2008 and was a regular for Lazio, playing for the Rome side in last year's Champions League.

Following the completion of his transfer, Behrami told the club's official website: "I am very happy to at last be able to sign for West Ham. For me it is a dream come true to play for the club and in the Premier League. I am very much looking forward to becoming part of the team here.

valuable addition

"After the European Championships, I spoke with West Ham who expressed their interest in me coming here. It was important for me to talk with everyone here and, when I did, I was very pleased to see what they wanted from me and what the plans are now and in the future for the team. It was something that enabled me to make my decision very quickly and now I can't wait to train and play for West Ham."

West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "We are delighted to have signed Valon. We beat off a lot of interest from other clubs to get him and we are very pleased to now have him here at West Ham United. He is a player who will be a valuable addition to the squad as we aim for a successful season ahead.

"Valon's signing is also an indication of the club's positive ambitions and shows that, contrary to some reports, we are firmly committed to strengthening the playing staff. There will not be a mass exodus and fans can be assured that we are working hard as always to ensure high-calibre competition in all areas of the team."

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