Nuno Espirito Santo is at the London Stadium. Real Sociedad are close to reaching a full agreement to sign West Ham United defensive midfielder Edson Alvarez, according to transfer reporter Matteo Moretto.
Direct talks between the Spanish club and the 28-year-old Mexican international have progressed significantly in recent days.
Alvarez has demonstrated his commitment to the transfer by agreeing to a significant wage reduction to fit within Real Sociedad’s salary structure. He has also formally requested that West Ham sanction his departure.
The defensive midfielder, who moved to the London Stadium from Ajax in 2023 for an initial £32 million, is eager to launch a new chapter in La Liga, with his role at West Ham increasingly uncertain due to the club’s ongoing squad rebuild.
Alvarez was left out of West Ham’s squad for their Championship opener against Burnley, further signalling that his departure is imminent.
Signing Alvarez would fulfil a primary objective for Sociedad, who have been seeking a defensive anchor to reinforce their midfield ahead of a return to the Europa League next season.
With over 80 senior caps for Mexico and extensive European experience in Amsterdam, Alvarez is regarded as an ideal fit in San Sebastian.
With personal terms agreed and Alvarez keen to finalise the move, Real Sociedad and West Ham are working to iron out the final details.
However, a deal is unlikely to be completed before the La Liga side open their 2026/27 campaign away at Real Betis this weekend.
Meanwhile, West Ham will aim to return to winning ways at home on Sunday, when Charlton Athletic visit East London.
Alvarez is expected to be left out again, regardless of whether his move to Spain has been finalised.