 Benayoun joined West Ham from Racing Santander for �2.5m in 2005 |
West Ham midfielder Yossi Benayoun says he will sign a new five-year contract this week to remain at Upton Park. The 26-year-old Israeli was linked with moves to Arsenal and Liverpool in the summer transfer window, but says he has no intention of leaving the Hammers.
"I never said I wanted to leave, it is normal to have speculation in the press," said the Israel captain.
"But I am very happy at West Ham, everything has been agreed on a new deal and I will sign for five years."
He added: "Liverpool and Arsenal are two big names, but this shows I am very happy here and also that the club are happy with me."
Benayoun believes West Ham have the potential to be challenging for trophies - especially if the club is taken over by new owners as has been speculated.
"Of course if somebody comes in with a lot of money of course it will help the team," added Benayoun.
"They brought two world class players here in Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, so I think this club is going to make a big step forward."
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