West Ham unveil new signing Nsereko

The club admitted the 19-year-old German youth international had signed for more than £5million, with some estimates putting the figure in excess of the club's previous record fee of £7.5million paid for Craig Bellamy 18 months ago.

Regardless of the price, Hammers' boss Gianfranco Zola was delighted to add Nsereko - who can play as a striker, left winger or left midfielder - to his squad.

He said: "This is not a gamble. When I see a player I see certain things and I know what he can do.

"He reminds me of myself when I was 19. He likes to take people on and he is deadly in one v one situations.

"He is quality, dynamic and quick. If we allow him time to settle down he will be a success."

And the youngster, who will wear the number 10 shirt, admitted he was undaunted about moving to the Premier League.

He said: "It is a big responsibility but I know what I can do. I have to improve a lot but I will get better every day in training.

"I am very happy to be here and proud to play for a club like West Ham."

Nsereko links up again with West Ham's director of football Gianluca Nani, who was responsible for taking him to Brescia from his first club, Munich 1860, three years ago.

The Ugandan-born player has played 17 games for the Italians this season, scoring three goals.

Nsereko could make his debut in tomorrow evening's home game against Hull City, although the Irons are still awaiting international clearance.

Zola also moved to reassure fans that established stars like Matthew Upson, Robert Green and Scott Parker will not be sold.

"I am confident we will see off any bids for them," he said. "They like it here and they want to stay."

One player who will not feature against Hull is Kieron Dyer.

The midfielder, who has just returned to action after a lengthy absence, has suffered a leg injury that could require surgery. He could be ruled out for several weeks.