Arsenal are considering a move for West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus as part of their efforts to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. The Ghanaian forward, who joined West Ham in a £38 million transfer from Ajax, has drawn interest from several Premier League rivals, including Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Liverpool. This widespread attention reflects Kudus’s rising profile following his performances at Ajax, where he scored 18 goals and provided seven assists in 42 appearances during the 2022-23 season.

Despite the significant interest, West Ham remains determined to keep hold of Kudus. Reports suggest that the London club intends to set a high asking price to discourage suitors, with figures around £85 million being mooted. This valuation reflects both his potential and the competition for his signature. The striker’s role at West Ham has already shown promise, having contributed five goals and four assists over 35 appearances across all competitions in a challenging season for the club.

Arsenal’s interest in Kudus is seen as part of a broader search for attacking reinforcements. While the Gunners have been linked with other forwards such as Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokores, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, the complexity and cost of these deals have made the domestic option of Kudus particularly attractive. Additionally, Arsenal is reported to be monitoring Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, who might lose his place amid the Blues’ intensive summer recruitment.

From Ajax, where Kudus made his name, the club’s sporting director has confirmed informal enquiries from Arsenal and Chelsea but cautioned that interest has yet to translate into official offers. He also suggested the player’s asking price could rise, emphasising that the negotiations are at an early stage. Kudus himself has expressed optimism about his development since moving to West Ham and has a clear desire to continue progressing in the Premier League.

Further complicating the transfer landscape, Saudi Arabian clubs, notably Al-Nassr, have reportedly submitted lucrative offers for Kudus, with bids potentially exceeding West Ham’s asking price. However, the player appears focused on establishing himself in England, despite the financial allure abroad.

Overall, the pursuit of Mohammed Kudus exemplifies the intense competition among Premier League clubs for high-calibre talent amid a busy transfer window. Arsenal’s interest is genuine but faces stiff competition and financial obstacles, as West Ham and other suitors weigh their options in a delicate bidding process.

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Source: Noah Wire Services