Hammers double swoop for Fabianski and giant stopper Diop

Proof that West Ham and Manuel Pellegrini mean business in the transfer market this summer has come with the double signings of Issa Diop and Lukasz Fabianski. Diop has cost a club record £22 million from Toulouse (though Arnie cost £20 million plus add-ons amounting to an eventual £24 million). Centre back Diop is a good age at 22 and will be the tallest player at the club at 6ft 4ins, bigger even than Andy Carroll. 

Issa made his debut at 18 and at just 20 was named club captain so he's clearly got leadership qualities. Toulouse only just avoided relegation last season but Diop is a fine prospect having already starred for France's Under-19 side. You wonder if this might spell the end for Winston Reid, whose body is creaking a little, with Diop partnered by either or both Ogbonna and Rice. But the club now have four quality centre backs, which is essential in the Premier League.

Polish international Fabianski won the FA Cup with Arsenal and has had four fine seasons at Swansea — he was the club's player of the season last time round. He's 33, but an underrated keeper and a decent signing. If he can play for another three seasons then £7 million is a fair price. If Adrian stays there's going to great competition for the number one spot — though I do fear that after two seasons of moves to replace him Adrian might be on his bike. 

Pellegrini has noted WHU's terrible defensive record and acted. With the signings of Ryan Fredericks, Diop and Fabianski the club has strengthened in three key positions. Sullivan and Gold have spent £29million so far, though it should be remembered that the club made a profit in the January transfer window through the sales of Ayew and Fonte, so there's still a lot of money left from our TV revenue. Now Pellegrini has to do something about the midfield absence of Manuel Lanzini, but he's made a promising — and early — start in the transfer market.