West Ham United are in the market for a new midfielder, with Edson Alvarez due to depart this summer.
That is according to ExWHUEmployee, who said: “Edson Alvarez has interest from German side FC Koln. It appears that the German side have made their moves. It looks like loan move with an option to buy the Mexican international has been provisionally agreed although the player is yet to agree personal terms.
“Whilst Alvarez would have had to take a 50 percent relegation wage reduction at West Ham those wages are still thought to be higher than what the German side can afford.
“This does mean that a few other clubs are waiting in the wings including Turkish sides Fenerbache (where he spent last season on loan) and Besiktas.”
With Alvarez in line to leave, the Hammers may need to bring in a new midfielder ahead of their upcoming Championship campaign, and they have entered the race to sign Reims star Mory Gbane.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
The news of West Ham’s interest comes from established Foot Mercato journalist Sebastien Denis, and it makes a great deal of sense, considering Alvarez’s departure will hopefully raise the funds to bring in a new midfielder. |
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Finances |
Crucially, Reims are open to sanctioning a departure, but only for a ‘substantial’ fee. As such, while it is unclear what sort of figure the Ligue 2 side would be looking for, there are signs West Ham could be able to get a deal done. |
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Insight |
The Ivorian midfielder has collected two caps for his national side, and he was an important player for Reims in Ligue 2 last season, making 26 appearances. Prior to making the move to France, the 25-year-old starred for Gil Vicente in the Liga Portugal. |
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Impact |
Gbane could be brought in as an alternative to Nottingham Forest star James McAtee. The Hammers are keen on signing the Englishman, but his current employers want to give him a chance under Oliver Glasner. |
West Ham enter the race to sign Mory Gbane
According to journalist Sebastien Denis, West Ham now hold a concrete interest in signing Gbane, who is also attracting attention from Celtic and Trabzonspor.
Reims aren’t opposed to cashing-in, but it would take a ‘substantial’ offer to prise him away from the French club.
Where Mory Gbane could fit in at West Ham
Although the Ivory Coast international scored three Ligue 2 goals last season, he primarily flourishes when it comes to winning back possession.
In fact, the central midfielder’s agent, Sékou Kaba, believes he was “the best ball-winner in the Portuguese league” during his time with Gil Vicente.
Mory Gbane’s Ligue 2 stats in 2025-26 and squad ranking
- 1,777 minutes played (6th)
- 5.5 defensive contributions per 90 (3rd)
- 47.9 accurate passes per 90 (3rd)
- 1.3 interceptions per 90 (1st)
As such, the Reims star could be brought in as a like-for-like replacement for Alvarez, who is also most often utilised in a more defensive midfield role.
However, the Mexican struggled to make an impact at West Ham, being loaned out to Fenerbahce last season, whereas Gbane has been described as “so consistent” by scout Ben Mattinson, which suggests he could be a real upgrade.
