West Ham United have secured the services of Mexican midfielder Edson Alvarez in a deal worth around £35 million.
According to Fabrizio Romano, West Ham and Ajax have reached an agreement to bring the 25-year-old to the Premier League.
Following the departure of West Ham captain Declan Rice to Arsenal for a club-record £105 million fee, the Hammers have been scouring the transfer market for a suitable replacement.
Alvarez topped their wish list, but it looked like Borussia Dortmund would sign the Mexican international.
However, the deal broke down and West Ham are now close to securing his services.
Alvarez is a versatile player capable of slotting into midfield or defence with equal finesse.
The Mexican midfielder made 44 appearances for Ajax in all competitions last season. He has been an integral part of the Dutch giants since his move from Club America in 2019.
The completion of paperwork and a customary medical examination stand between Alvarez and his inevitable move to West Ham.
The Hammers have been criticised for being slow in the transfer market. If the deal goes through, Alvarez will be their first summer signing.
They still need more reinforcements at centre-back and in midfield. They will also need signings up front, especially if they lose Gianluca Scamacca.
Ajax’s loss of Alvarez is compounded by another impending departure with attacking midfielder Mohamed Kudus set to leave the club.
Kudus had interest from Chelsea and Arsenal but will join Brighton & Hove Albion for €40 million.
With these departures, Ajax’s summer exodus tally reaches eleven first-team players. The exits have left a void that will undoubtedly challenge the squad’s depth and talent.
