West Ham are weighing up a move for Ajax defensive midfielder Edson Alvarez, according to 90min.com journalist Graeme Bailey.

Chelsea had a £43m bid for the Mexican international rejected during the summer transfer window but Bailey claims the Hammers are now the likeliest to make an offer as they line up a replacement for Declan Rice:

“I think Alvarez is one to keep an eye on. West Ham are looking at him because Declan Rice is going to leave for Chelsea in the summer.”

Although West Ham fans will be reluctant to accept Rice’s departure, most are resigned to losing him, considering the club’s poor performances in the Premier League.

As Bailey mentions, Chelsea are the favourites to sign the England international, but it appears the Irons will be looking at one of the Blues’ other targets to fill the void left by their captain.

Alvarez started his career as a centre-back, before moving into midfield, which mirrors Rice’s own path, so he seems like he will be a good fit if he does end up making the switch to the London Stadium.