West Ham United hopeful of Edson Alvarez transfer while in Australia
West Ham United are hopeful of signing Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez while they undergo their pre-season preparations in Australia, according to The Guardian.
The report (17 July) shares that the East Londoners could be preparing a forlorn bid to prize him away from the Dutch giants, while on their pre-season tour of Australia.
The Athletic journalist Ornstein taking to his personal Twitter account (14 July) reported that the Dutch giants want between £35m to £40m to consider selling the Mexican international with West Ham making contact to sign him.
Following the confirmation of Declan Rice’s departure at the London Stadium, West Ham United must ensure they are in the market for a replacement who could potentially fill the gap on his own.
There are certainly two names in the frame who could possibly provide that quick and quality fix, and that is Alvarez or Fulham’s Joao Palhinha who the Hammers are also reportedly in talks for.
One of these two players are an absolute must transfers as they possess almost like-for-like defensive midfield capabilities as Rice, a player dominant in the lone number six role not just his defensive actions but progressive and influential in possession of the ball.
Ajax’s Alvarez is a superb bet and at £35m-£40m represents a superb bargain opportunity.
As per FBRef, over the past year and within Europe’s top-five leagues, Alvarez impressively ranks in the 91st percentile for progressive passes, 93rd for progressive carries and ranked fourth in the Eredivisie last season for the number of dribbles tackled (44) showcasing his destructive and influential qualities in midfield.
At 25 years of age, with great international and European experience, the Mexican midfield machine wouldn’t need any considerable time to adjust to the rigours and pace of the Premier League as he is already impressively built for it.
Given the class of defensive midfielders ready to take the stage in the English top flight next season, Alvarez will be instantly amongst that prestigious list should he make the move to East London. Get him in as soon as possible
