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Morgan Amalfitano signs for Lille on a free transfer

Lille have signed midfielder Morgan Amalfitano on a free transfer.

Amalfitano, 30, had been a free agent since being released by West Ham in October after falling out with manager Slaven Bilic.

He has now penned a two-and-a-half-year contract to return to his native France with a side that currently sit 11th in Ligue 1.

He told Lille's official website: "It gives me great pleasure to join a club like LOSC who are highly regarded in Ligue 1. I would rate them in the top five clubs in France and though they are not there right now, they are on the way back. I am very happy if I can contribute to this climb back up the table.

"Time will tell if I have made the right choice, but I have no doubts. After several months out of action, I am itching to get my feet back on the pitch.''

Amalfitano began his career with Cannes before moving on to Sedan, Lorient and Marseille, amassing 201 appearances and 16 goals in Ligue 1.

In 2013 he joined West Bromwich Albion, announcing himself with a wonderful solo goal against Manchester United, before moving on to West Ham the following season.

He made 24 appearances but only 14 starts in the Premier League for the Hammers, scoring three goals, and his four FA Cup appearances included a red card against the Baggies.

The midfielder was restricted to four games in the Europa League this season under new manager Slaven Bilic.

Amalfitano has one France cap to his name -- against Germany in 2012.