West Ham sign Havard Nordtveit

West Ham United have secured the services of former Arsenal graduate Havard Nordtveit on a free transfer. The Norwegian links up with the Hammers following a strong season with Borussia Monchengladbach.

Nordtveit failed to make the cut at the Emirates between 2007 and 2010, and decided to pursue a challenge in the German league. Since then, he has developed into top player and is now a regular with his national side.

"It has always been a dream for me to play in the Premier League and now I have a big opportunity to do that for West Ham - I cannot wait to start," he told the Hammers' official website.

"I'm a player who can play many roles on the pitch, but I'm from Norway so maybe a little bit more running, tackles and try to spread a few balls around me. I'm looking forward to showing what I can do, but hopefully I have something to help West Ham achieve even more."

Slaven Bilic's side look to have got themselves a massive bargain in Nordtveit given his ability to play in either central defence or in the heart of midfield.

The 25-year-old racked 233 appearances during his time at Gladbach.