The Chile international joined the Hammers in a one-year loan deal from Vieira's current club Inter Milan in June.

Vieira won three league titles in a highly successful spell with Arsenal, and only had good things to tell Jimenez about the Barclays Premier League.

great person

"I've spoken to Patrick about the Premier League and heard how much he loves it," Jimenez told the club's official website.

"He told me the fans in England are great and that if I ever had the chance to come here I should take it. Now I have that chance with West Ham.

"I also played with Valon Behrami. He was my team-mate at Lazio. Valon is a great person and as a player I knew he had all the qualities to do well wherever he went.

"I am looking forward to playing with him once again and helping West Ham do well."

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