Demba Ba confirms move to West Ham

Senegal striker Demba Ba has confirmed a move to West Ham United, saying German side Hoffenheim have agreed a loan deal for the rest of the season.

Ba said the clubs had agreed a six-month loan deal.

"I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement, " the 25-year-old said Monday on his website.

"I was eager to join the club and meet my new teammates. I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join that team. I thank my family and all my fans for their support."

Ba has a contract with Hoffenheim until 2013 but fell out with the club after failing to turn up for the team's winter training camp in Spain, when he was believed to be holding talks with Premier League side West Ham.

After nothing came of the move, Ba was then close to signing for Stoke City in a 7-million-euro (9.2 million dollars) move but the Premier League club pulled out following a medical test.