LONDON, ENGLAND - April 20: Mascots and pre match action prior to the match between West Ham United and Leicester City at London Stadium on April 20th, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by James Griffiths/West Ham United via Getty Images)
Edson Alvarez signs West Ham United contract overnight – Fabrizio Romano
Edson Alvarez has signed a contract overnight to join West Ham United, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Romano tweeted (9 August) that the Ajax midfielder had signed the papers to complete his move overnight. The Athletic reported (7 August) that the deal is worth up to £34.4million, making Alvarez the most expensive Mexican in Premier League history.
Alvarez becomes the Hammers’ first senior summer signing just three days ahead of their opening Premier League match.
Finally
West Ham fans will be pleased to finally see a deal completed this summer.
In the hunt for signings, the Hammers have hit many roadblocks. Their bids for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse were rejected, but as per The Guardian (9 August), they may finally have a £30million offer over the line.
They have recently seen a fresh bid from Manchester City for Lucas Paqueta, with Ge Globo reporting (8 August) that Pep Guardiola’s side offered £70million for the Brazilian.
However, for now, they finally have a midfield recruit ready for action. While not a total Rice replacement, the Mexican has the profile and experience to play a key role in the middle of the park for David Moyes.
During his time at Ajax, the 25-year-old amassed 147 total appearances including 33 in European competition, meaning he could prove pivotal in West Ham’s Europa League campaign this season.
With 7.76 progressive passes per 90 (92nd percentile) and 2.54 progressive carries per 90 (92nd percentile) [FBRef], Alvarez is adept at getting his sides ready to attack. Meanwhile, he is defensively dominant with 2.65 clearances per 90 (98th percentile) and 3.38 aerial duels won per 90 (99th percentile).
With the new Premier League campaign just days away, it is unlikely the Mexican will start for the Hammers away against Bournemouth so fans may have to wait a little while before they see their more man in action.
