Fenerbahçe have opened negotiations with United for Edson Álvarez, with José Mourinho personally pushing for the deal. West Ham spent about $44 million to sign Álvarez from Ajax in 2023, but insiders doubt they’ll recoup that amount. Current valuations place him closer to $27–32 million. Turkish reports suggest Fenerbahçe prefer an initial loan with an option to buy, which would ease Financial Fair Play constraints. Álvarez currently earns around $128,000 per week, and any new deal would likely extend through 2028 or 2029 to cover his prime years.

The competition for his signature is strong. Ajax want him back but can only afford a loan with wage-sharing. Monaco see him as the defensive midfielder coach Adi Hütter needs and are prepared for a permanent transfer in the $27–32 million range. Borussia Dortmund, who nearly signed him in 2023, are monitoring from a distance but haven’t made a move. Each destination offers something different: Ajax provides Champions League football, Monaco offers a stable project in a top league, and Fenerbahçe would make him Mourinho’s focal point.

Álvarez made 31 appearances for West Ham last season but has slipped down the pecking order under Graham Potter, who left him on the bench during the 3–0 loss to Sunderland. His defensive style hasn’t meshed with Potter’s possession-focused approach. Supporters once raved about his dominance, dubbing him a monster, though his form dipped in the latter half of the season. Statistically, he remains effective in tackles, interceptions, and aerial duels, even if he rarely contributes in attack.

Mourinho sees Álvarez as the disciplined holding midfielder his system relies on. He could anchor a double pivot or sit in front of the defense, much like Nemanja Matić or Daniele De Rossi did in Mourinho’s past teams. His versatility also allows him to drop into a back three. As captain of Mexico, Álvarez brings leadership Mourinho values.

West Ham’s stance and possible replacements

West Ham appear ready to sell. Potter doesn’t view Álvarez as part of his long-term plans, and the club needs funds for a rebuild. His wages also make him a candidate to move on. West Ham have explored replacements such as Andrey Santos of Chelsea, Yves Bissouma of Tottenham, and Ngal’ayel Mukau of Lille, though bids have been rejected or talks are still in early stages. Academy midfielder Freddie Potts could also see more minutes if Álvarez departs. With Ward-Prowse, Souček, and Guido Rodríguez available, though all older, the club believes it has enough cover.

In Turkey, media emphasize Mourinho’s personal request. Fans view Álvarez as a statement signing and trust Mourinho’s judgment, though some warn talks are only at an early stage. In , headlines describe it as a bombazo that Mourinho wants a Mexican international. Analysts argue that consistent minutes matter more than league prestige with 2026 approaching. A popular phrase on social media sums up the mood: “que juegue, donde sea pero que juegue” — as long as he plays. In the UK, West Ham blogs and forums show frustration, with many fans calling it risky to let him leave without a clear replacement. Some note his inconsistency, while others question why Mourinho values him when Potter does not.

Overall, Álvarez is weighing his options carefully. Fenerbahçe’s proactive approach and Mourinho’s influence give them an advantage, but Ajax and Monaco remain in contention. With West Ham open to a deal, the saga is likely to be resolved before the transfer window closes.