Chivas reportedly secure first signing ahead of next tournament, with right winger Efraín Álvarez set to join

Chivas is set to announce its first official reinforcement for the upcoming season. Following the appointment of Gabriel Milito as the new head coach, the Argentine tactician confirmed the club's intention to strengthen the squad.

After the recent transfer of Mateo Chávez to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar, Chivas' management acted swiftly to fill the gap, securing a player capable of contributing both defensively and offensively.

The club reportedly has reached a permanent transfer agreement with Tijuana Xolos for Efraín Álvarez, who is expected to sign a four-year contract. The Guadalajara-based team sees Álvarez as a key asset for the short, medium, and long-term.

Álvarez, who previously played for LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, spent the past two seasons with Tijuana, scoring eight goals across both regular-season and playoff matches in Liga MX. During his time in L.A., he earned praise and support from global football icon Zlatan Ibrahimović.

This marks the first signing of the Milito era, who signed a two-year contract with Chivas with the goal of restoring the team to prominence. Milito quickly won over the fans, particularly after referencing Matías Almeyda - the manager who led Chivas to their most recent Liga MX title.

Meanwhile, reports continue to circulate about a potential move for American midfielder Richard Ledezma from PSV Eindhoven. While it’s believed he has reached an agreement with Chivas, details about his arrival in Guadalajara and official signing remain pending.

Álvarez began his professional career with LA Galaxy and gained international recognition in 2019 as part of Mexico's U17 squad that finished runners-up at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil. He made his senior national team debut in 2021 and was later called up for that year’s Gold Cup.

The attacking midfielder joined Xolos ahead of the 2023 Apertura tournament. In the most recent Clausura 2025 campaign, he played 1,020 minutes across 14 matches - 12 of them as a starter - and scored one goal.

El Rebaño have a busy preseason schedule following their beach camp. They’ll play a friendly in Colima against Tapatío on June 13, followed by appearances in two four-team tournaments - first in Zacatepec from June 19 -22, and then in Zacatecas from June 26-29.