Edson Alvarez to join West Ham from Ajax | OneFootball

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. Alvarez will embark on a thrilling new chapter in London.

Following the departure of West Ham captain Declan Rice to Arsenal for a club-record fee of £105 million, the Hammers have been diligently 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. West Ham returned for him and are close to sealing the deal.

Alvarez, a defensive midfielder by trade, is a versatile player capable of slotting into centre-back with equal finesse.

Last season, the Mexican midfielder made 44 appearances for Ajax in all competitions. 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. He will don the iconic claret and blue jersey.

West Ham have been criticised for being slow in the transfer market this summer. If the deal goes through, Alvarez will be their first summer signing.

They still need more reinforcement at centre-back and in midfield. Also, they will need signings up front, especially if they lose Gianluca Scamacca.

For Ajax, the loss of Alvarez is compounded by another impending departure. Alongside the Mexican star, they will lose attacking midfielder Mohamed Kudus.

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.