Chelsea given second chance to sign Alvarez

Chelsea have been given a second chance to sign Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez after missing out last summer, according to a report.

The Lowdown: Chelsea eyeing Alvarez

Chelsea have been eyeing Alvarez for quite some time, with journalist Ben Jacobs claiming they ‘came close’ to signing the midfielder last summer, a move that the player himself was said to be keen on.

The 25-year-old has admitted that he ‘grieved’ when the proposed £43m switch to Stamford Bridge fell through, indicating that he is ready to leave the Dutch club, where he is currently contracted until the summer of 2025, and he may now have the perfect opportunity to do so…

The Latest: Second chance for Chelsea

According to a report from De Telegraaf (via Sport Witness), Ajax have now promised the central midfielder he can leave in the summer transfer window, having already started work on signing a replacement.

It is, as yet, unclear whether Chelsea will look to renew their interest, but the fact they were willing to spend as much as €60m (£52.8m) on the maestro is said to be a clear indication of how highly they rate him.

The player himself has also confirmed that he wants out, saying: “Of course my focus is one hundred percent on Ajax at the moment. But if something nice comes along next summer that is good for Ajax and for me, then I want to seize that opportunity.”

The Verdict: Get it done?

Graham Potter may well need to look at strengthening in central midfield this summer, given that Mason Mount’s father is now said to have mandated an agent to sound out interest in the 24-year-old, amid stalling contract talks.

The Cobham academy graduate has attracted interest from fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United, and while Potter will be hoping an agreement can be reached, Alvarez could be a fantastic replacement.

Lauded as ‘sensational’ by members of the media, the Mexico international is assured in possession, ranking in the 92nd percentile for his pass completion rate per 90 in the past year, while he is also solid defensively, placed in the 91st percentile for tackles when compared to other midfielders.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea are willing to spend big on another midfielder, having brought in Enzo Fernandez for £106.8m in January, but if Potter does enter the market again, Alvarez would be a very good addition to the squad.