West Ham have announced the permanent signing of Halle Houssein on a free transfer following her departure from Arsenal.

The 17-year-old spent the second half of the 2021/22 campaign with the Hammers on a duel registration from the Gunners and made seven appearances for the club, including netting a debut goal against Chelsea in the Continental Cup.

Houssein is a product of the Arsenal youth system, having first joined at the age of four, and announced at the beginning of June that she would be departing the north London outfit after 13 years with the club.

“It’s a great feeling and a real honour to sign permanently with the club,“ Houssein told whufc.com. “West Ham is a hard-working, family club and I think playing here will provide me with the best possible chance to develop and learn as I continue to grow as a player.

“Deep down, I’ve always wanted to wear the shirt because I support West Ham, and I achieved that last season – but to have signed here permanently is an amazing feeling. I can’t wait to get going again and see what next season will bring.”

The midfielder is West Ham’s second addition of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of fellow teenager Jessica Ziu from Shelbourne, which was announced back in March.

However, Houssein is the first signing made by new Hammers boss Paul Konchesky, who took over from Olli Harder following the conclusion of the 2021/22 WSL season.

“It’s fantastic that we’ve been able to bring Halle back to this football club,“ Konchesky added. “A big part of our ethos at West Ham is our desire to give young players the opportunity – whether that be through our own academy or from elsewhere. 

“Last season, Halle was the perfect example for that as she made her WSL debut and scored on her debut in the Conti Cup. Every time she puts the shirt on, she gives 110% – something every West Ham fan loves. 

“We’re really pleased that Halle is back with us and we are all looking forward to seeing her continued development throughout the upcoming season.”