West Ham boss expects more signings

© David Davies/PA Wire

Manuel Pellegrini says he is still looking to add to his West Ham squad.

The 64-year-old Chilean was facing the media for the first time since he was appointed Hammers manager last month.

Pellegrini was flanked by Felipe Anderson, the Brazilian playmaker, and former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, two of the seven new signings already recruited this summer.

He said: “We are trying to build a strong squad. We know the Premier League is not easy and you don’t just need a team, you need a squad.

“We have seven new players but we have three important players injured, so until the last day to bring in players we will try to build as strong squad as possible.”

Spanish midfielder Pedro Obiang has been linked with a move to Italian club Sampdoria but Pellegrini added: “I don’t talk about rumours, when it’s official we will see what happens. If players must go we will need to find a replacement.”

Wilshere arrived on a free transfer from the Gunners, joining the club he supported as a boy.

The 26-year-old said: “Whenever I left Arsenal before on loan I would always ask my agent if West Ham were interested.

“It’s a special time for me. Once I decided to leave Arsenal, when I spoke with Manuel it was an easy decision for me.”