Hammers announce double signing

West Ham have announced they have signed Italian striker David Di Michele and Congolese left-back Herita Ilunga, with both deals subject to registration by the Premier League.

The news comes after Monday night's transfer window deadline and in a statement on the club's official website, the Hammers acknowledged "the lateness of this announcement", blaming administrative issues.

The statement read: "The club recognise the lateness of this announcement but certain formalities including the release of international transfer certificates had to be completed."

Both players have been brought in on year-long loans with a view to making their deals permanent, while the club are also continuing to talk to free agent Stephen Appiah over a move to Upton Park.

The statement continued: "West Ham can also confirm discussions with Ghana midfielder Stephen Appiah are ongoing."

Di Michele has most recently been playing for Torino, with full-back Ilunga representing French side Toulouse.

Both men would add valuable experience to boss Alan Curbishley's dressing room with Di Michele, 32, having played six times for Italy, while the 26-year-old Ilunga experienced European football during Toulouse's UEFA Cup campaign last season.

Provided their transfers are ratified by the Premier League, the pair will join Valon Behrami and Jan Lastuvka in signing for the Hammers over the summer.