AC Milan will consider offering ex-Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek in a straight swap deal for Edson Alvarez, according to MilanLive.it.

The Italian website claims that the Rossoneri are very interested in the Mexican international as they look to strengthen their options in midfield during the next transfer window.

Loftus-Cheek is not deemed to be an integral player by current head coach Paulo Fonseca, as he doesn’t fit into his style of play.

In contrast, Alvarez is seen as someone who can provide competition for Youssouf Fofana in the middle of the park.

West Ham would not accept a straight swap

The Hammers paid Ajax £35m for Alvarez last year, while Loftus-Cheek made the switch to Milan for £15m (plus add-ons) during the same summer.

Their values are not comparable to each other so, even if Julen Lopetegui’s side were willing to let Alvarez go, they would surely demand a significantly higher offer for him. You’d think that at least another £20m would be needed in addition to Loftus-Cheek.

Fonseca may not still be in charge by January

Another reason why West Ham fans should not pay any mind to this transfer rumour is the fact that Fonseca’s position at the San Siro is not secure.

The Portuguese manager has had a difficult start to life in Milan, having replaced the popular Stefano Pioli. He did win the Milan derby and the subsequent league fixture against Lecce.

However, his team lost to Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League last week and again versus Fiorentina in Serie A on Sunday.

If Fonseca does leave his job prior to the January transfer window, Loftus-Cheek’s position in the squad may change once again, while any interest in Alvarez may also cool.

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