Alves is more versatile than Cuadrado in that he could definitely fullback & wingback, but I still think Cuadrado offers game breaking ability that is unique in serie A
Cuadrado is quicker, and I want to keep him, but really thats his only advantage, in case you mean that in game breaking ability? Alves is both fantastic dribbler, high technique, solid defensively, and most important of all he is one man creating machine down the wing (big difference in their abilities to create for others). He suits both patient possession play and on the break runs behind defends, both with the ball and without. Excells at long balls, through balls, crosses. Essentially a playmaker in wingback role that plays with more intelligence then the Colombian. He has quite a bit in his arsenal even in his older age.
Cuadrado is essentially more of a on the break forward that Alves isnt, but latter is clever and decisive on the pitch in a way Cuadrado isnt, because he is kind of individualistic as heck and his gameplan tends to be beat your next man and see what happens repeated several times over.
If the choice was keep Cuadrado or sign Alves, I would choose the Colombian due the 5 year age difference (and that Cuadrado is such a firecracker, adds urgency and drive that older Alves doesnt have much anymore), but its not as simple as that, and we have bigger priorities then us keeping Cuadrado no matter.
Short summary: I rate Alves end product alot higher then Cuadrado's (except him to do more then the Colombian for a season if he has the right motivation), but still rather keep Johnny Square instead if it was possible.
Our boy @dann10 was super quick making this clip for sure, very complete fullback: