Ajax star Edson Alvarez has opened up on his ‘disappointment’ over his failed move to Chelsea last summer.
The Blues submitted a £43million bid for the defensive midfielder in August which they saw rejected under the premise that the Dutch champions wouldn’t be able to sign a replacement before the transfer window ended.
Alvarez refused to train with the Ajax first-team in protest over Chelsea’s rejected bid and now the midfielder has revealed how he ‘fought’ for a move to England.
Speaking to ESPN, Alvarez said: ‘There was interest from Chelsea. Nobody expected that they would make another offer. It was a difficult situation.
‘Ajax really couldn’t do anything. They didn’t have a player in my position. Of course I fought as far as I could. I didn’t want to do that too much.
‘Because I know the responsibility I have within the club. I am very disappointed, but I am convinced that sooner or later a big club will come for me.’
Alvarez had emerged as one of Todd Boehly’s top targets in the transfer window having become a key figure for the Dutch champions with his solid performances in the heart of their midfield.
The Mexican midfielder also spoke on how his family are a driving matter in his football career.
‘Eventually you are aware that everything changes. A better competition, a better life for yourself and for your family. Because that’s what it’s all about in the end.
‘I’ve always thought for myself that I’m here because of my love for football, but also for my family. That they are well, that I can take care of my children and my parents.
‘So yes… On the other hand, it motivates me enormously that clubs of that size keep an eye on my matches, my actions.’
Alvarez’s hopes of a move to a big club may not have to wait long with Barcelona reportedly eyeing up a move for the Ajax star next summer – after identifying the midfielder as a replacement for Sergio Busquets.
Xavi’s side are monitoring Alvarez’s situation as the prepare to launch a bid for the midfielder in the next summer window.
They are looking for suitable options to replace Busquets when he inevitably leaves the club in the near future – having spent 15 years in Barcelona.
Club scouts have been present to watch Alvarez in Champions League games against Rangers, Liverpool and Napoli.
