14-1-11: Stoke are on the verge of sealing a £5.9m deal which will see West Ham transfer target Demba Ba join from Hoffenheim. 24-1-11: West Ham have signed Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba on loan until the end of the season. The Hammers have beaten Sunderland, Everton, Fulham and West Brom to the Senegal international's services. Stoke were also interested, initially, but that proposed deal collapsed, allowing West Ham to increase their attacking options. 28-1-11: Senegal striker Demba Ba has joined West Ham on a permanent basis from Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-and-a-half-year deal. Ba told the club's official website: "It was a long story but now I'm happy because it had a really good end and I am glad to be here. "I'm going to give everything to West Ham United. "I have made the move to West Ham and I'm very happy. I'm definitely excited to be playing in the Premier League. "For myself, it is a bit difficult to describe myself, but when I'm on the pitch I just give everything for the team I am playing for and for the fans who support me. "I like playing football. I like to be on the pitch playing good passes with the other guys and running with the ball, rather than playing in a direct style, so I should be able to fit in well at West Ham." He added: "My aims for the rest of the season are to enjoy my football and give everything I have to give to make people happy. "I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement. I was eager to join the club and meet my new team-mates. I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join this team. I thank my family and all my fans for their support." 1-7-11: Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has signed Senegal striker Demba Ba on a three-year contract from West Ham on a free transfer. Pardew said: "Demba made a great impression with West Ham last season and is a great signing for this club. "He has pace, excellent technical ability, is good in the air and, it