West Ham United’s midfielder Edson Álvarez has joined Turkish side Fenerbahce on loan, with the move carrying an option to become permanent next summer.
The 27-year-old Mexico international only joined the Hammers last year in a £35 million move from Ajax but has now been given the chance to play under Jose Mourinho in Turkey.
Álvarez has made 73 appearances for West Ham in all competitions, scoring twice and providing three assists. He was on the bench for the club’s opening-day defeat against Sunderland but did not feature. He was also left out of the squad in their 5-1 loss to Chelsea at the London Stadium.
Despite his limited involvement at club level this season, Álvarez remains an important figure for his country. He captained Mexico to victory in the Concacaf Gold Cup final this summer, scoring the winning goal against the USA.
Fenerbahce have been active in the transfer market this summer. They signed defender Nelson Semedo from Wolves and also brought in striker Jhon Duran on loan from Al-Nassr, the Saudi club. Now, with Álvarez joining the squad, Mourinho will be counting on him to bring extra strength and leadership in midfield as Fenerbahce push for trophies in the Turkish Super Lig.
