Alvarez arrives in London | Is he Mark Nobles man? –

Soon to be West Ham midfielder Edson Alvarez has arrived in London ahead of his £34m transfer from Ajax.

Confirmation of the players arrival appeared in the form of a picture from transfer ITK Fabrizio Romano. In one of his tweets, the Italian journalist posted a photo of Edson Alvarez on a London bound jet. Accompanying the midfielder on the flight from Mexico, was none other than director of football Tim Steidten.

Surely this picture will end all speculation the Hammers new transfer supremo is inactive. It had been suggested that Steidten had not been involved in any West Ham transfer deals.

In an additional twist, West Ham ITK EXwhuemployee has claimed the signing of Alvarez is the work of Mark Noble. Far be it from me to get my Sporting Directors and Football Directors mixed up . . . but this does add another layer of complexity. The suggestion is that Noble scouted and recommended Alvarez, whilst Steidten completed the negotiations. Whatever happened, I believe it to be good news irrespective of the individual recruitment roles.

Alvarez a Dec replacement?

The signing will be a massive relief to fans and everyone at the club. Whilst the Mexican midfielder is not a like for like replacement for Declan Rice  . . . he is a fine player who will be a good asset.

Romano tweeted: “Edson Álvarez, on his way to London — ready to undergo medical tests as new West Ham player. Álvarez will become most expensive Mexican player ever. Here, Edson flying with agents Nathan and Fulco van Kooperen — and West Ham director Tim Steidten.”

The Hammers can now move onto sealing their interest in Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire. West Ham will also be looking to recruit a new striker and midfielder Youssouf Fofana is thought to remain a backup option.