West Ham star Edson Alvarez accused of selling fake Covid-19 certificates in 'illicit' scheme during the pandemic along with his former father-in-law... just weeks after kidnapping allegation

West Ham midfielder Edson Alvarez and his former father-in-law have been accused of selling false Covid-19 vaccination certificates during the pandemic.

The allegation has been made by the same film producer who accused the footballer of being linked to a kidnapping in Mexico just weeks ago.

Filmmaker Juan Jose Lopez Ordonez told Mexican outlet TV Notas in September that the family of Alvarez's former father-in-law Jonathan Toache Bedolla forced him into a vehicle at gunpoint in Mexico City in 2024. He claimed the West Ham star was aware of the kidnapping, although not directly involved.

Alvarez, who strenuously denied the accusation, has now been accused of falsifying Covid-19 certificates along with Bedolla and a doctor.

As reported by Mexican outlet El Financiero, Ordonez claimed in a press conference on Thursday that the trio allegedly sold fake Covid-19 vaccination certificates that included stamps, signatures and even a QR code.

The producer, who claims to have witnessed how the illicit forgery network operated, said: 'The moral burden is very heavy, and here I am facing the music. If I bear any responsibility, the authorities will determine that, but I can no longer hide this.'

West Ham's Edson Alvarez has been accused of selling false Covid-19 vaccination certificates

According to Ordonez and various Mexican publications, the fake Covid-19 certificates were sold for upwards of $500 (£370) each.

The alleged operation is said to have enabled several high-profile figures to travel abroad while bypassing Covid-19 restrictions during the pandemic.

Alvarez's alleged links to the counterfeit document scheme have come under scrutiny recently after a list of public figures who reportedly obtained the certificates was leaked.

Fashion model Montserrat Oliver, actress Yolanda Andrade, musician Jay de la Cueva and actor Alfredo Adame are among the Mexican celebrities named in the leaked document, according to the report. It is claimed they, among others, sought false certificates from Alvarez and his former father-in-law to avoid vaccination.

As falsifying public health documents is a federal crime in Mexico, authorities may launch an official investigation. Daily Mail Sport has approached Alvarez for comment on the latest allegation.

Addressing the kidnapping accusation made by film producer Ordonez last month, Alvarez said: 'I categorically reject any allegation or attempt to associate my name with events, conflicts, or conduct that are entirely unrelated to me.'

West Ham, who sit second in the Championship, are gearing up to face Southampton at the London Stadium on Saturday.

The Mexican has not been included in a single Championship matchday squad so far this season, having failed to secure a move away from the Hammers this summer.