West Ham have signed defensive midfielder, Edson Alvarez from Ajax for £34.4m.
Alvarez has signed a five-year contract at West Ham until June 2028 after the Hammer agreed a £34.4m deal with Ajax for the 25 year-old, who produced four goals and three assists for the Eredivisie club last season.
Alvarez primarily plays as a defensive midfielder but such is his versatility, he can be utilised as a centre-back or central midfielder depending upon tactics from game-to-game – having made 20 appearances in central defence last season for Ajax in all competitions.
West Ham have confirmed that Alvarez will wear the number 19 shirt this season and could make his debut in the Hammers’ away trip to Bournemouth on Saturday 12 August at 3pm BST, as the new Premier League season commences.
Speaking about his decision to move to West Ham, Alvarez commented: “I am very happy and very proud to be here,” commented Alvarez who is fluent in English after taking the opportunity to learn the language whilst at Ajax.
Alvarez went on to speak of his pride at moving to London as he continued: “Being here in London and seeing London Stadium, it’s amazing. I can’t wait to play here in front of the West Ham fans.
“It’s a hugely sentimental moment for me in my career. To join a club like a West Ham is a dream for me and my family.
“The Premier League is a special league, the best league in the world and I think my style will suit it. I now have a responsibility to West Ham and the West Ham family and I will give absolutely everything for the shirt.”
Manager, David Moyes is “really pleased” to sign Alvarez as he added: “The midfield area was one we were especially keen to strengthen this summer – and Edson will complement the other options we have in that department.
“He’s an experienced international player, who has enjoyed great success for both club and country during his career to date.
“We’re excited about welcoming to West Ham and seeing him play his part in English and European competition for the Club.”
Alvarez began his career with Club America where he scored five goals in 113 senior appearances after he graduated from their youth academy in 2016, before he went on to net 13 goals in 147 appearances for Ajax following his move in July 2019.
During his time at Ajax, Alvarez was part of their Eredivisie title-winning squad in 2020-21 & 21-22 seasons whilst he helped the team to KNVB Cup in 20-21 season.
The 25 year-old represents Mexico internationally with three goals in 68 appearances since he made his debut in February 2017, whilst he also was part of title winning squads at 2019 and 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
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