West Ham United likely fended off big competition for the signature of Kurt Zouma, according to former Hammer Frank McAvennie.
The Lowdown: London switch
Following two loan spells with Everton and Stoke City, Zouma's time at Chelsea finally came to an end after 151 appearances, with West Ham paying £31.5million for the centre-half.
Zouma, 26, was an unused substitute in the goalless draw with Southampton before making his debut for the club in last week's 2-0 Europa League victory over Dinamo Zagreb.
In the Hammers' recent game, Zouma impressed against Manchester United, making 12 clearances, winning all of his ground duels, winning three of his four aerial duels and completing 93% of his passes.
The Latest: McAvennie impressed
Speaking to West Ham Zone, former Irons striker McAvennie has expressed his satisfaction with what he's seen so far from the towering Frenchman at West Ham.
"I did say he was a good player.
"He's a commanding centre-half, just what they needed.
"They've got boys who can run the ball but he's a powerful and big player.
"I'm delighted. I'm convinced there must have been other teams in for him."
The Verdict: Next level defender
The signing of Zouma certainly strengthens David Moyes' defence and adds more competition to that area of the field.
With Zouma forming a strong bond with Angelo Ogbonna, Craig Dawson and Issa Diop remain at the club and could be called upon with European games on Thursday night.
Zouma's powerful presence and ability to distribute the ball out of defence, with his 93% pass completion from Sunday, alongside the midfield pivot of Tomas Soucek and Declan Rice, means the spine of Moyes' side has strengthened from the end of last season.
After struggling to stake a claim in the Chelsea side on a regular basis, Zouma now finds himself with the chance to cement himself as one of the Premier League's best centre-backs and potentially see a return to the France national team.
In other news, Noel Whelan has been full of praise for this West Ham United midfielder. Find out more here.