Real Sociedad tracking Edson Álvarez as versatile midfield option | OneFootball

Real Sociedad are pursuing West Ham United’s Edson Álvarez in this window, viewing the Mexico international as cover in midfield and defence. He sat out West Ham’s most recent game while resolving his future away from the London Stadium.

According to Diario Vasco, his representative attended Saturday’s friendly at Stamford Bridge against Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea and spoke with Erik Bretos and Pellegrino Matarazzo. The outlet adds that talks are advanced and Álvarez is willing to cut his salary to play at Anoeta.

West Ham paid €39 million to Ajax three years ago, and he is under contract until 2028 on Premier League terms. His current valuation is put at €15 million, and Real Sociedad could seek structures such as buying 50 per cent of his rights, while West Ham want to recoup part of their 2023 outlay.

Álvarez is match ready, having played 75 minutes in the EFL Cup first round against Portsmouth. He also featured in all four of Mexico’s World Cup games, starting three as captain before a round of 16 defeat to Brazil.

He has had fitness issues, with three muscle injuries since February 2025. In February this year, while at Fenerbahce, he underwent ankle surgery, returning in May for a one-minute cameo against Basaksehir. He recovered in time for the World Cup and completed pre-season.

Real view him chiefly for the pivot role given Jon Gorrotxategi’s problems, while his ability to cover at centre-back also counts. The hunt for a left-footed centre-half remains open.

Source: Diario Vasco

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