Hammers sign Chelsea striker Cole

Cole has spent loan spells at Wolves, Charlton and Aston Villa

West Ham have completed the signing of forward Carlton Cole from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old, who has signed a four-year deal, struggled to establish himself at Chelsea despite impressing for England's Under-21 side.

Last season Cole made 12 appearances for Chelsea, scoring in the FA Cup win over Huddersfield.

"This is a great coup for West Ham," said Hammers boss Pardew, whose side qualified for the Uefa Cup last season.

Pardew added: "Several clubs came in for Carlton and it is a great compliment to what we have achieved here, that he has signed for us.

Cole will face striking competition from Dean Ashton, Teddy Sheringham, Bobby Zamora and Marlon Harewood.

"Carlton is a powerful, skilful striker and brings another option to our forward-line as we embark on a new season and a European campaign," added Pardew.

"In my view, despite England Under-21 honours, he has not achieved his full potential yet and that is part of the excitement of signing a player like this.

"I believe we can bring the best out of him and make him a great asset to West Ham United.

"He will also fit in very quickly with the squad because he knows players like Anton Ferdinand and Nigel Reo Coker from his trips with the young England players.

"I am delighted to have Carlton on board, but our search for new players is not over and I want our supporters to know there will be more signings in the coming weeks."