Chelsea and Tottenham target West Ham attacker amid growing interest | OneFootball

Tottenham Lead Race for West Ham Star as Chelsea Consider Swap Deal

Tottenham Make First Move for Kudus

Tottenham Hotspur have made the opening approach in what could become one of the most contested transfer pursuits of the summer. According to Caught Offside, Spurs have made direct contact with representatives of West Ham attacker Mohammed Kudus, marking a significant step forward in their efforts to strengthen Thomas Frank’s attacking options.

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The Ghanaian international has been one of the standout performers for the Hammers since arriving in East London. In 65 Premier League appearances, Kudus has registered 13 goals and 12 assists, playing across the front line as well as in a more central attacking role. His ability to occupy multiple positions makes him a valuable target in a competitive market.

West Ham Set Price Despite Premier League Clause

Kudus is understood to have an £85 million release clause applicable to domestic clubs, but sources suggest West Ham are open to a negotiated deal closer to €60 million. With Graham Potter overseeing a reshuffle at the London Stadium, a sale would provide significant funds to reinvest across the squad.

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Tottenham’s early move signals strong intent to get ahead of rivals and address their lack of creativity and final-third incision. Kudus has been identified as their primary attacking target this summer.

Chelsea’s Interest Still Active Despite Rejections

Chelsea, while already active in the market with deals for Joao Pedro and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, remain in the hunt. The Blues explored a swap-based package involving Carney Chukwuemeka or Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall plus cash, but West Ham rejected the proposal, preferring a straight-cash structure.

Photo IMAGO

The Stamford Bridge hierarchy are still monitoring the situation and could return if Tottenham fail to agree terms or if a bidding scenario emerges.

Liverpool and Newcastle Maintain Watching Brief

Liverpool and Newcastle United are both keeping tabs on the situation. The Reds are yet to make a formal move but are believed to admire Kudus’ ability to break lines and contribute in a high-pressing system. Newcastle’s interest is understood to be limited by current financial constraints, particularly in light of their summer priorities.

Kudus is open to a move to a Champions League club, and while Spurs offer immediate traction, Chelsea and Liverpool remain firmly in the background.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This is exactly the type of move Spurs need to make. Kudus is explosive, adaptable and thrives in transitional play. The fact that Tottenham were the first to make contact shows how serious the club are about levelling up. Signing a player of Kudus’ calibre, especially from a domestic rival, sends a strong message about ambition. He won’t just be cover, he’ll be a starter who improves the entire attack.

If the club can wrap this up quickly and avoid a drawn-out saga with Chelsea or Liverpool, it could be one of the smartest signings of the window. Kudus playing alongside Son and Maddison? That has serious potential.

For Chelsea, this feels like another case of Chelsea hovering without real clarity. Kudus would be an exciting addition, but the idea of throwing in Chukwuemeka or Dewsbury-Hall as makeweights reflects a lack of proper strategy. If West Ham want cash, then pay it or move on. There’s been too much scattergun recruitment already.

Also, do they even have a clear plan for Kudus? He plays multiple roles, yes, but so do Nkunku, Palmer and now Joao Pedro. Unless there’s a defined role for him, Chelsea risk stacking talent without tactical coherence.