This is news that will make Chairman Daniel Levy happy. Mohammed Kudus (25, West Ham United) is shouting only about joining the 'London rival' Tottenham Hotspur.
On the 8th (Korean time), British 'Football Insider' reported, "Kudus is only interested in a transfer to Tottenham. It is said that Tottenham has gained significant strength in acquiring Kudus, despite the competition with Chelsea. Chelsea is also in discussions with West Ham regarding the transfer fee, which seems to relieve Tottenham's concerns."
'Famous for 'Here we go', transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano also noted, "Kudus is currently not in talks with any other clubs. He only wants a transfer to Tottenham. He has already agreed to the Tottenham project, and discussions between West Ham and the club are expected to continue," saying that "Kudus is determined to join Tottenham."
Tottenham's competitor Chelsea has already signed Jamie Gittens and João Pedro, but they are also eyeing Kudus. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr is said to be keeping an eye on him. Because of this, former Tottenham player Paul Robinson expressed concern that Tottenham may pull out of the transfer due to the fee issue.
However, contrary to expectations, Kudus strongly wants to move to Tottenham, which has allowed them to accelerate their efforts for his acquisition. Football Insider explained, "Kudus is pressuring West Ham to accept Tottenham's offer. He has clearly shown his intention to join Tottenham."
Kudus is a forward representing Ghana and a multi-player who can handle various positions. After joining Ajax in 2020, he established himself as a second-striker and attacking midfielder based on his vigorous activity, quick dribbling, and sharp finishing.
During three seasons at Ajax, Kudus played 63 matches in the Dutch Eredivisie, scoring 16 goals. In the 2022-2023 season alone, he made a significant impression by scoring 11 goals and providing 3 assists in 30 matches. His name is also familiar to Korean football fans. Kudus scored multiple goals against Korea in the group stage of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, leading Ghana to a 3-2 victory.
Having made a strong impression, Kudus donned the West Ham uniform after receiving interest from several clubs this summer, transferring for a fee of £40 million (about 74.3 billion won). He is performing as a starting winger for West Ham, showcasing his excellent dribbling and physicality in the Premier League. In his two seasons at West Ham, his record stands at 80 matches and 19 goals. However, Kudus scored all 14 goals in his debut season but declined to 5 goals last season.
Nevertheless, Tottenham, seeking to strengthen its attacking line, has set its sights on Kudus. This summer, rumors surrounded key players including the captain Son Heung-min, Richarlison, and Bryan Gil. Timo Werner has also returned to Leipzig after finishing his loan. Currently, the only new addition to the team is Mathys Tel.
British 'Telegraph' stated, "Kudus will bring Premier League and Champions League experience to Tottenham. His ability to play behind the striker will provide Frank with abundant options," adding, "Tottenham has not yet made an offer to Kudus. The club needs to raise funds for transfers through player sales. There is also a possibility of securing new investments from the owner or outside the club."
Tottenham is trying to break a long-standing transfer taboo. Based in the same London, Tottenham has not made a direct player transaction with West Ham since acquiring Scott Parker in 2011. Now, Tottenham is looking to lift its unofficial transfer ban and bring Kudus to North London.
The Telegraph explained, "Kudus has been identified as a key target for Tottenham. It is reported that Tottenham is optimistic about securing a transfer for an amount significantly below his £85 million (about 158.6 billion won) release clause, which is said to be valid for the first 10 days of July."
West Ham also has the intention to part ways with Kudus. This is because the club needs to reorganize its squad and secure finances under the management of Graham Potter, who was appointed as a firefighter last season. If Kudus joins Tottenham, he could directly replace Son Heung-min or Richarlison, whose situations are under speculation.
For now, Tottenham has successfully captured Kudus's interest, overcoming a significant hurdle. Mick Brown, a scout for Tottenham and Manchester United, stated, "There are three or four clubs showing interest in Kudus. However, he has clearly expressed his intent. He said that he is not interested in West Ham or any other clubs, only in joining Tottenham."
He added, "This is a significant advantage for Tottenham because not only does it eliminate the need to worry about competing with other clubs, but it also helps in negotiations," stating, "West Ham will be under pressure to accept Tottenham's offer. That’s because it is the only option the player wants."
Now, the final key issue is the transfer fee. Tottenham is optimistic that they can bring Kudus in for around £60 million (about 112 billion won). However, they had already made an offer of £50 million (about 93.3 billion won) which was rejected by West Ham. According to 'BBC', at least six top clubs are interested in Kudus, making it look like West Ham is not willing to make concessions in negotiations.
Both teams are expected to continue seeking a compromise. Romano stated, "Tottenham will make a re-bid next week as Kudus is eager to join the team. Chelsea has also contacted Kudus and other clubs have shown interest. Tottenham wants to ramp up the pace. Frank has already approved Kudus as a key target."
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