Transfers of Wednesday, 26 July 2006

Source: Mirror

Decision on Paintsil this week

WEST HAM boss Alan Pardew will make a decision on the signing of Ghana's John Pantsil this week after seeing his side come from behind to win easily in their final preseason game in Sweden.

Pantsil starred in the World Cup this summer and the Hapoel Tel Aviv defender has spent seven days training with the Hammers in Sweden.

Pardew said: "I thought John did well. He might have something we need."

Pardew keen on right back

West Ham manager Alan Pardew has hinted that Ghana international John Painstil could earn himself a contract at Upton Park.

The 25-year-old, who currently plays for Hapoel Tel Aviv, was invited for a trial with the east Londoners on the advice of Hammers midfielder Yossi Benayoun.

Painstil has featured for Pardew's side during the recent pre-season tour in Sweden, and the Hammers boss has admitted he has been impressed.

"I thought John did well," said Pardew in The Sun.

"He's an experienced player and might be something that we need. "We'll continue to talk and assess that later this week."

The African star's agent has already hinted a deal could be in the offing.