Edson Alvarez confirms Chelsea transfer interest

In an interview with ESPN.nl, Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez has confirmed that he tried hard to join Chelsea during the 2022 summer transfer window.

The Mexico international emerged as a top target for the Blues towards the end of August but Ajax refused to sell him as they had no time to land a replacement.

The London giants made an offer worth €50 million for the 25-year-old on August 31. Ajax rebuffed the offer as the Dutch transfer window closed on the same day.

Speaking to ESPN, Alvarez has now acknowledged that Chelsea wanted to sign him but nobody expected them to make a renewed approach before the transfer deadline.

He added that he fought as far as he could but Ajax were within their rights to turn down the move. While he is very disappointed, Alvarez is convinced of joining a big club.

He said: “There was interest from Chelsea. Nobody expected that they would make another offer. It was a difficult situation. Ajax really couldn’t do anything. They didn’t have a player in my position.”

“Of course I fought as far as I could. I didn’t want to do that too much. Because I know the responsibility I have within the club. I am very disappointed, but I am convinced that sooner or later a big club will come for me.”

Alvarez refused to train with the senior squad earlier this summer, but was eventually convinced by manager Alfred Schreuder. He has since been a mainstay from the defensive midfield role.

The Mexican has averaged an impressive two tackles and three clearances per outing. He has completed 87 per cent of his passes while winning as many as six duels per appearance (as per SofaScore).

The midfielder is expected to play a key role for his country at the World Cup this winter and will be hoping that a strong showing will invite plenty of transfer interest ahead of January.

Chelsea have already been fancied to make a fresh move this winter, but they may not be alone. Barcelona and Manchester United could also compete for his services in the New Year.