Thierry Nevers' imminent move to West Ham United has been blasted by one former Hammers striker.

Frank McAvennie has issued a seething condemnation of the signing during an interview with West Ham Zone.

McAvennie played for West Ham between 1989-1992.

“West Ham used to bring their own youth through but now they’re going out and buying but good luck to him – they must’ve seen something,” McAvennie said.

“I’m hoping David Moyes is sanctioning all the deals now, I’m so glad it’s not somebody just going and picking people.

“But with young boys, you want to see them coming through the academy, don’t you? That’s what you want.

“This boy, if he comes here, spends a year getting used to the club, David will be hoping he’ll be pushing for the first team in a year or two.

"I’d imagine that’s what he’ll be doing because if he’s not played any games for Reading, I doubt he’ll be going into the West Ham squad.

“If you’re good enough and you’re doing well, he’ll play you and maybe that wasn’t the case at Reading."

Nevers will sign for the Hammers when the window opens on June 9 on a three-year-contract after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.