Edson Álvarez has asked West Ham United to allow him to leave as Real Sociedad step up their attempt to sign the Mexico international.
The midfielder’s future has been uncertain throughout the summer, but his position now appears considerably clearer after he was left out of Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad for Sunday’s Championship opener against Burnley.
Matteo Moretto now reports that Real Sociedad are close to Álvarez, with advanced discussions taking place with the 28-year-old. Álvarez is also prepared to reduce his salary to secure the move and has asked West Ham to let him leave.
Edson Alvarez pushes for West Ham exit
The development represents another significant step towards the end of Álvarez’s three-year stay in east London.
Real Sociedad and Ajax have both pursued the midfielder this summer, while West Ham have been attempting to secure a deal which provides a permanent solution.
ReadWestHam reported before the Burnley game that Álvarez could be left out as exit discussions intensified. He was subsequently absent from Nuno’s matchday squad at Turf Moor.
Real Sociedad have now emerged as the strongest route towards an exit.
West Ham previously rejected the structure of an unusual proposal which could have seen Sociedad purchase only part of Álvarez’s economic value, with the Hammers seeking greater guarantees from any deal.
The player’s willingness to take a wage reduction could make negotiations easier.
Álvarez remains under contract with West Ham until 2028 after joining from Ajax in 2023.
His departure would continue a major reshaping of Nuno’s squad following relegation, although the arrival of £22m midfielder Arne Engels has already strengthened West Ham’s options in the middle of the pitch.
With Álvarez now personally pushing to leave and Real Sociedad talks advancing, one of West Ham’s longest-running summer transfer situations appears closer to being resolved.
