Ajax star Edson Alvarez has opened up on his failed £43million transfer to Chelsea as Manchester United enter the race for the Mexican midfielder ahead of the January transfer window.
Chelsea's move for Alvarez seemingly came out of the blue, but as football.london previously reported the midfielder is someone who has been tracked by the west London club for some time. Ajax were reluctant to let the 25-year-old leave after the Blues approached the Eredivisie champions after the Dutch transfer window had closed.
The Amsterdam-based club would have not been able to go out and purchase a direct replacement for the Mexican midfielder, although they eventually signed Florian Grillitsch on a free transfer – which was allowed despite the window being closed. Erik ten Hag is said to be keen on bringing Alvarez to Old Trafford after working with him in Holland, but Chelsea remain interested and could reignite their interest in the January transfer window.
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According to Calcio Mercato, Manchester United have joined Chelsea in their pursuit of Alvarez. The west London outfit are set to lose N’Golo Kante and Jorginho in the summer due to their contracts expiring, meaning midfield reinforcements are required as Graham Potter looks to put his own marker down on the squad by signing players that fit his style of play.
Following his failed move to Stamford Bridge, in which he attempted to force through by following Antony's example by refusing to report for first team training in the summer, the Mexican midfielder has now opened up on what happened during deadline day.
Alvarez told ESPN in Holland: “I am very disappointed about it [failed move to Chelsea]. But I am convinced that one day a big club will come.
"We never expected Chelsea to put in another bid at the end of August. It was a difficult situation. Ajax couldn't do anything."
Whether the Blues return with an offer in the January transfer window remains to be seen but Todd Boehly will face competition for Alvarez's signature from Manchester United.
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