OFFICIAL: João Mario Signs For West Ham United
REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach
West Ham United have completed the signing of João Mario from Inter Milan on loan for the rest of the season.
Though many reports suggested a shock deal worth around the region of £35 million could be on the horizon, it seems like the Italian giants could only settle for a loan deal.
On the other hand, the Portuguese became David Moyes’ first signing since taking charge at the London Stadium. The signings seems to have been forced by the injuries sustained by key squad players, Manuel Lanzini and Marko Arnautovic.
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Further, it has also been confirmed that the 25-year-old will be wearing the No 18 squad number, which has previously been worn by Frank Lampard during his time at the club.
The central midfielder is a European Cup holder with Portugal, alongside West Ham defender Jose Fonte, who according to the gaffer, played a vital role in the completion of this switch.
Mario is expected to travel with his new side for their FA Cup fourth round tie against Wigan Athletic this weekend.
Written by Ashish Sreejith 
Have had two addictions in life- playing football and watching football. Usually described as introverted but not when it comes to speaking and writing about the beautiful game of football.