Earlier this week, reports coming in from the Netherlands suggested that Eredivisie champions Ajax had targeted the player they wanted to replace Matthijs De Ligt. Today, the Dutch champions have confirmed that Mexican midfielder Edson Álvarez will sign a five-year deal with the Eredivisie giants in the next few days.
The 21-year-old is one of the most talented players of his generation, being able to play both as a center back and as a midfielder.
Reports in Mexico and the Netherlands reveal that Ajax paid $17M for the player's services. Both Ajax and Club América confirmed the transfer on their social media accounts.
Someone new is on his way...#VamosEdson
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) July 19, 2019
You helped us with our dream of winning a 13th title, and now it's our turn to support you with your dreams.
— Club América EN (@ClubAmerica_EN) July 19, 2019
Thank you, @EdsonAlvarez19, and here's to much success with @AFCAjax!#FlyWithUs pic.twitter.com/YEfzcAAFEQ
Alvarez becomes the first Mexican player in history to join Ajax, but he is not the first El Tri footballer to join an Eredivisie side. Previously, players such as Andrés Guardado, Héctor Moreno, Carlos Salcido and Hirving Lozano played for Ajax's bitter rival, PSV Eindhoven.
The 21-year-old is set to become a key player for Ajax if he can keep up his recent form.
105 - Edson Álvarez won 105 duels in the 2018/19 Mexican Clausura regular season, only one defender won more. Promise.
— OptaJohan (@OptaJohan) July 19, 2019
The former Club América player had his breakthrough season in 2016. Álvarez was key to Las Águilas' 2018 Apertura title, scoring a brace in the title match. Furthermore, he won the 2019 Copa MX title with América, and capped a massive semester by winning the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup title with Mexico.