Only in football can someone say “Brother” on Instagram and spark headlines. That’s exactly what’s happened with Edson Alvarez, whose one-word comment to former Ajax teammate Liam van Gelderen caught the attention of Football Insider.
Alvarez dropped the message after helping Mexico beat Suriname 2–0 in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Van Gelderen now plays for Suriname, which is apparently enough of a link for some to start drawing conclusions.
In truth, it was a post that wouldn’t usually raise eyebrows. But context is key: talk of a squad shake-up this summer has already been hanging over West Ham like a dull cloud, and some are starting to wonder if Alvarez could be part of the clearout.
No Noise, But All Eyes Are Watching
Unlike Kudus, who’s reportedly on numerous clubs radar, Alvarez hasn’t been the subject of any serious transfer talk. It’s been quiet, too quiet if you believe the folks trying to read between every digital line. A January exit never materialised either, though certain reports suggest it was explored.
Now the thinking goes like this: West Ham might need to shift a few valuable assets to fund new signings, and Alvarez happens to be one of the few who could bring in a decent fee. That, paired with a vague Instagram comment, is apparently enough to stir the rumour pot.
But so far, not a whisper from the player, his agent, or the club suggesting he’s on his way out.
The “Brother” Bit Doesn’t Mean Much (Yet)
Alvarez joined from Ajax just last summer, and while Chelsea and Manchester United were poking around before he signed for West Ham, there’s been no repeat of that interest this time round. Nothing concrete, nothing credible.
Sure, he’s one of the more sellable assets in the squad, and yes, West Ham might end up needing to cash in somewhere. But spinning a friendly message into transfer talk feels like reaching. Until something real comes along (a bid, a quote, an actual rumour with legs) a post-game comment to a mate seems like exactly what it is. Just a message to a “brother.”
For now, Alvarez is still wearing claret and blue. Anything else is smoke without fire.
