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Confirmed: West Ham announce January transfer as forward signs until 2018
WEST HAM have confirmed the sale of forward Mauro Zarate to Fiorentina.
Mauro Zarate has completed his move to Fiorentina
The deal brings to an end a difficult two-year spell in London for the 28-year-old who has struggled at Upton Park since joining from Velez Sarsfield in 2014.
The Argentine has scored five goals in 21 outings in all competitions this season, having returned from an unsuccessful loan spell QPR where he spent the second half of last campaign.
"West Ham would like to thank Mauro for his efforts in Claret and Blue and wish him all the best in his future career," the London club said on their Twitter feed.
The former Inter Milan and Lazio man has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal with Fiorentina, costing the Italian club a reported £1.6million.
Mauro Zarate was desperate to leave Upton Park this month
Slaven Bilic was keen to keep Mauro Zarate at West Ham
Hammers boss Slaven Bilic was keen to keep Zarate, but he all but confirmed his departure yesterday by tweeting a heartfelt tribute to the club's owners and supporters.
The Viola, who are expected to offload striker Giuseppe Rossi this month, are fourth in Serie A, six points behind leaders Napoli.