West Ham midfielder Edson Alvarez says he gets extra motivation from rumours linking him with a move away from the London Stadium.

AC Milan were mentioned as a potential suitor for the Mexican international last week and, asked about the reports by TV Azteca Deportes (quotes translated by Sport Witness), Alvarez replied:

“Let’s see, if you are in this environment, rumours will exist, both for you and for us. And well, I think that, as they said, it means that you are doing things well, that they are turning their attention to you.”

“I just use it to my advantage. In the sense of continuing to do what I am doing, trying to improve and well, increase my confidence.”

A swap deal involving Alvarez has been proffered

Reports in the Italian media suggested that Milan would offer ex-Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek in exchange for the West Ham player.

However, considering the transfer fees paid for the pair, you can’t see the Hammers accepting a straight swap. The London club stumped up £35m for Alvarez while Milan only shelled out £15m on Loftus-Cheek.

The West Ham star has also been linked with other clubs

Earlier this year, Manchester United were suggested as a possible destination for Alvarez, with the player tipped to be reunited with his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag.

However, there are two important factors that would rule out a switch to Old Trafford going ahead now. Ten Hag looks on the cusp of losing his job so he is unlikely to have any say on future transfers.

Secondly, and more importantly, the Red Devils splashed out £42m on another holding midfielder in the summer, with Manuel Ugarte being signed from Paris Saint-Germain. If Alvarez does leave the Irons, he won’t be going to Manchester.

Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here