West Ham sign France under 23 international Belloumou

West Ham United have confirmed the signing of France under 23 international Ines Belloumou.

The 23 year old has signed a three year contract with the Women’s Super League side but will join Lazio on loan for the 2024/25 campaign – this will allow the player to accumulate the necessary points to meet the GBE criteria for international player visas.

“I feel very proud to be joining West Ham United,” Belloumou said, speaking to the club’s website.

“I’ve been speaking with the Club for a long time now and I felt I had to come here. I’ve spoken with the French players who I know well, Vivi [Asseyi] and Hawa [Cissoko], and they both said, 'Inès, you have to come. You will not be disappointed'. They said the Club is a big family and I’m already really excited to meet everyone.

“I’m someone with a lot of determination. I give everything on the pitch and I’m a big competitor. I want to win!

“This is a new chapter for me. I have played in France and Germany and I’m now looking forward to playing in England. All are different styles of play but for me, the Women’s Super League is the best league and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead.”