West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson is convinced they've landed one of Europe's "most highly-rated young players" in Julien Faubert.

The 23-year-old completed a £6.1million move from Bordeaux to Upton Park on Sunday, becoming manager Alan Curbishley's second summer capture following the arrival of Scott Parker from Newcastle.

After finalising a five-year contract with the France midfielder, Magnusson told the club's website: "I am delighted to welcome Julien to Upton Park and feel sure that he will become a very successful signing for the club.

"He is one of the most highly-rated young players in European football and many clubs were attempting to sign him, so we are very pleased that he has decided to join West Ham United.

"I have been very impressed by his desire and ambition and I think he will be very popular among our supporters."