Why Edson Alvarez has been waiting for Ajax all along as chaotic West Ham saga nears conclusion

Edson Alvarez could mark the end of his time with West Ham United by going back to the club he joined the Hammers from.

The Irons signed the Mexican for just over £35million in 2023, and he is widely regarded in E20 as a flop.

Unlike Mohammed Kudus, Alvarez was unable to make the transition from playing in the Netherlands with Ajax to the Premier League, failing under multiple managers.

The midfielder spent the entire of last season on loan with Fenerbahce, who decided against keeping him on a permanent deal.

There have been recent reports linking the 28-year-old with a loan move to FC Koln in Germany, but nothing is yet to be agreed.

Now, Ajax are keen to re-sign Alvarez, who should now be entering his prime, and the Dutch giants could be the reason why West Ham have had to wait so long to get him out the door.

Edson Alvarez's past Ajax admission makes total sense for West Ham

West Ham Zone has reported information that Ajax are looking to bring Alvarez back to the Johan Cruyff Arena this summer.

It's said that the Hammers still owe Ajax over £11m in what will be their final instalment for the player they signed three years ago.

The Irons want a permanent sale, though the Dutch side have also explored the possibility of a loan deal, like Koln.

Either way, it seems uncomfortably fitting that Ajax is perhaps the most likely destination that he will end up at this summer, especially when revisiting his previous comments about his former side.

After returning to the Johan Cruyff Arena the winter following his departure from Ajax, Alvarez hinted that he would like to one day return back, despite only having just joined West Ham a matter of months ago.

Alvarez told fans, as quoted by Ajax's official website in February 2024: "It's fantastic, it feels like home here. I am very happy to be back with these great supporters.

"I feel a lot of emotion. I also thought back to the great moments we experienced on the field. I love Amsterdam, the fans and the city.

"Thank you for everything. For the love and the support. I hope to see you in the future."

Well, his wish may come true soon.

How Real Sociedad could make Alvarez exit saga drag on

One thing is for sure this summer, and that is that Alvarez will most likely leave the London Stadium one way or another.

However, Real Sociedad could be the latest team to complicate things.

The La Liga side are ready to pay £6m to acquire 50 per cent of Alvarez's rights, with the Hammers keen on a permanent sale.

Unless Ajax are willing to talk money with the Hammers, then the club will always see Real Sociedad's offer as more attractive.

The only issue is that the player himself may desire a return to Ajax over anything else.

Alvarez's West Ham exit will happen; it's just a matter of when and who, not if.