Official: West Ham complete permanent Dawson signing

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 3 min read

West Ham United have confirmed that they have signed Craig Dawson on a permanent basis from Championship side Watford.

The former Tottenham centre-back had been on loan at the Hammers, who he joined up with in October.

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It is reported that the 30-year-old Dawson has moved for a fee of around £2 million, having already paid a loan fee of £1m. He has signed a two-year contract with the club.

The deal comes as little surprise as Dawson has established himself as one of the in-form players in the Premier League this season. He has turned out 15 times for West Ham in the top flight and has scored three goals as David Moyes’ side have mounted an unexpected push for Champions League football next season.

“Coming to West Ham has been a great move for myself, and it is a privilege to play for a Club with such rooted traditions,” Dawson said.

“The squad has a real togetherness, team spirit and great quality. I’m excited for what my future at the Club may hold and the potential for what we as a Club can go on to achieve.”

Moyes on Dawson’s importance

Meanwhile, Moyes outlined what has made Dawson such an important addition to the West Ham team.

“Craig’s performances, attitude and the impact he’s had demonstrate why he deserves a permanent deal. He arrived with a wealth of Premier League experience and that’s been really important to us,” Moyes said.

He's here to stay!

We are delighted to confirm that Craig Dawson will join the Club on a permanent basis at the end of the 2020/21 season

— West Ham United (@WestHam) April 6, 2021

“He had to be patient but he’s comes in and grabbed his opportunity with both hands. We are always looking to improve the squad and Craig joining us permanently certainly does that.”

West Ham face a vital Premier League clash against Leicester on Sunday, with Dawson expected to play centre-back.