Javier Aguirre speaks out as West Ham player's agent puts wheels in motion for exit

Javier Aguirre has shared clarity as to why West Ham United midfielder Edson Alvarez's agent was spotted at Valencia's ground.

Rumours ramped up earlier this week that Alvarez could be on his way to Valencia in January.

Tarek Sebiat, who represents the Mexico international, is said to have been seen holding talks with Valencia's director of football Braulio Vazquez.

It has since emerged that Alvarez's agent also visited other clubs in Spain, with that being the out-of-favour midfielder's favoured next destination.

Alvarez has featured just once for West Ham in all competitions this season, coming against Portsmouth in the Carabao Cup two months ago.

But talk of a move to Valencia appears to have now been played down by Aguirre.

What has Javier Aguirre said on Edson Alvarez transfer?

Aguirre is now best remembered for his antics at the World Cup with Mexico, but he is now in charge of six-time Spanish champions Valencia.

Alvarez was part of Aguirre's squad for the summer tournament, making links with a move to Valencia for the midfielder obvious.

However, when asked at a press conference on Friday why the 28-year-old's agent was at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium, Aguirre is quoted by Marca as saying: "Just one of those coincidences. It was a coincidence."

Make of that what you will, but Aguirre has done his part to play down the speculation.

Is there a place for Alvarez in Nuno Espirito Santo's squad?

In a word: Yes. To not be involved at all is just bizarre.

It looked for all the world that Alvarez would be gone in the summer, but that did not transpire.

Now that the window is closed, and does not reopen for another couple of months, there is no reason for the Mexican to be frozen out.

Nuno Espirito Santo will have his reasons, but it is time to get Alvarez in the squad and playing a part now the fixtures are coming thick and fast.

If nothing else, it will keep Alvarez in the shop window and potentially add a few extra million to his price tag when he does depart - whether to Valencia or elsewhere.