Rice replacement secured as Alvarez Eds to West Ham

Edson Alvarez cannot wait to play in front of the West Ham faithful after becoming the club's first summer signing. 

The Mexican ace, who joins from Eredivisie giants Ajax, will be tasked with filling the void left by Declan Rice's move to London rivals Arsenal.

Alvarez, 25, said: "I am very happy and very proud to be here. 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."

Hammers boss David Moyes added: "We're really pleased to add Edson to our squad. 

"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.

"We're excited about welcoming to West Ham and seeing him play his part in English and European competition for the club."

Alvarez, who has signed a five-year deal at West Ham, primarily played as a defensive midfielder during his time at Ajax but is also capable of deputising at centre-back.

The 68-cap international was signed by the Dutch outfit from Club America in July 2019 and enjoyed plenty of success in Amsterdam.

Alvarez won two Eredivisie titles, scoring 13 goals from his 147 appearances across all competitions.

But he joins a mass exodus at the Johan Cruyff Arena after a disappointing 2022-23 campaign saw Ajax finish third behind PSV Eindhoven and champions Feyenoord.

Jurrien Timber, Dusan Tadic and Calvin Bassey have already departed, while Mohammed Kudus has been linked with a move to Brighton.