West Ham make first signing of transfer window as Edson Alvarez confirmed as Declan Rice replacement

West Ham have confirmed the signing of Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez.

The Mexican international joins the Hammers in deal worth around £34million from the Dutch giants.

Alvarez has swapped the Dutch capital for LondonGetty

Alvarez has also arrived as their first signing of the summer after they sold Declan Rice to Arsenal for £105million.

Despite a slow start to their transfer window, David Moyes’s side are finally starting to invest in the squad ahead of the new season.

“I am very happy and very proud to be here,” he told the club website. “Being here in London and seeing London Stadium, it’s amazing. I can’t wait to play here in front of the West Ham fans.

“It’s a hugely sentimental moment for me in my career. To join a club like a West Ham is a dream for me and my family.

“The Premier League is a special league, the best league in the world and I think my style will suit it. I now have a responsibility to West Ham and the West Ham family and I will give absolutely everything for the shirt.”

Alvarez leaves Ajax after making 147 appearances for the club across all competitions, including the Champions League.

He could be set to be one of two midfield signings at the London Stadium this summer alongside James Ward-Prowse.

West Ham have agreed a £30million deal with Southampton for the England international.

Manchester United star Scott McTominay has also been linked with a switch but their bid for the Scotsman was rejected.

However, a £30million deal has been agreed with the Red Devils for Harry Maguire, who is open to the move.

Despite such potential acquisitions, talkSPORT understands that star man Lucas Paqueta wants to join Manchester City this summer.

West Ham are looking to sign Cole Palmer on loan from the Etihad Stadium though as they continue to strengthen their squad.