West Ham Transfer News: Hammers Snap Up Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen

West Ham have begun their summer spending by bringing in experienced goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen on a free transfer.

The Finnish stopper will link up with his new club when his Bolton contract expires on July 1. The move marks the end of an epic 15-year spell with the Lancashire club in which Jaaskelainen played 529 games.

BBC Sport have reported that the Finn has signed for the club on a one-year deal which contains the option for a further 12 months.

The move is good news for the club, who have been looking for a goalkeeper since it was announced that Robert Green had left the club. The former England No. 1 left the club after failing to agree to a new contract after a dispute over Green's wage demands.

Jaaskelainen is an excellent signing for West Ham, who will be glad of his vast experience as they look to make a successful return to the Premier League. The Finn is renowned as a brilliant shot-stopper and has been a rock for Bolton ever since he arrived in 1997.

Sam Allardyce has moved quickly to fill the most obvious hole for the team, and now West Ham can shift their attention to strengthening other areas of the team.

At 37 years of age, Jaaskelainen will only be a short-term option for Allardyce, a fact that his contract reflects. However, if his performances keep the Hammers in the Premier League next season, it could be a fitting end to the career of a stalwart of the Premier League.

West Ham fans, what do you think of your new goalkeeper? Will Jaaskelainen be the factor that keeps your team playing top-division football? Comment below.