West Ham sign Austria international Hanshaw

Verena Hanshaw (left) joined Roma last summer after six seasons with Eintracht Frankfurt

Women's Super League side West Ham have signed Austria international defender Verena Hanshaw from Italian Serie A side AS Roma.

She has signed on an 18-month contract, BBC Sport understands.

Hanshaw, 31, has made 110 appearances for her country including being part of the Austria side which reached the semi-finals of Euro 2017 and the quarter-finals in 2022.

She joins a West Ham side currently 10th in the WSL, three points above the relegation place.

The Hammers have conceded 24 goals in 11 league games this season, the second worst defensive record in the WSL.

West Ham manager Rehanne Skinner was keen to add a left-sided defensive option, with her side beaten 5-0 at home by Chelsea on Sunday.

Hanshaw, who will wear the number 29 for West Ham, is the club's first signing of the January transfer window.

"This is a big opportunity for me and I'm really happy to be here," Hanshaw told the club website.

"I am a big team player and will always work hard for the team. I've heard a lot about the fans and how supportive and passionate they are, and I'm ready to push myself to do the club and the fans proud."

Skinner added: "Verena is a left-footed defender who is technically astute. She is calm on the ball, and her attacking and defensive work will suit our style of play.

"Verena has a wealth of experience at club and international level, having played in the Champions League and over 100 times for her country, and her leadership qualities will be a real asset to the group moving forwards."