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West Ham battle to keep Mohammed Kudus. African footballers. West Ham United may have a challenge keeping Mohammed Kudus this summer as Al-Ittihad is reportedly considering making a bid for the forward, according to ESPN.
Rob Dawson reported on June 19 that the Hammers are eager to retain the 23-year-old, who has contributed to 14 goals in the Premier League since joining from Ajax last year. Kudus is linked with moves away from London Stadium since his debut season, and Al-Ittihad’s financial strength could potentially sway his decision.
The Saudi Pro League club, which includes players like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Fabinho, finished fifth last season.
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West Ham battle to keep Mohammed Kudus
Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning financial influence in football has caused significant waves in the sport over the past 18 months, and Mohammed Kudus could be the next player to move to the Middle East.
With West Ham undergoing a transitional phase under new manager Julen Lopetegui in East London, retaining Kudus is a priority for the club. They aim to convince him that London Stadium is the best place for him to continue his career and reach his peak.
Despite interest from Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester United, who are reportedly monitoring Kudus if he chooses to stay in England, Al-Ittihad in Jeddah is likely to offer a substantial financial package.
Read also: Manchester United interested in Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus
West Ham holds the advantage with Kudus under a long-term contract, but the allure of Saudi Arabia’s financial offers cannot be underestimated. The situation remains fluid, and the club hopes it does not progress further.
More about Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus, born on August 2, 2000, is a Ghanaian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or right winger for West Ham United in the Premier League and the Ghana national team. Before joining West Ham, Kudus played for Nordsjælland and Ajax. Originally from Nima in Accra, Ghana, he comes from a Muslim background and has two brothers residing in Accra.
On August 27, 2023, Kudus transferred to West Ham United from Ajax on a five-year contract for €44.5 million plus additional payments. This move made him the third Ghanaian player at the club and the second most expensive Ghanaian footballer after Thomas Partey.
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Kudus made his debut for West Ham on September 1, scoring his first goals on September 21 in a 3–1 Europa League victory over TSC Bačka Topola. He netted his inaugural Premier League goal on October 9, 2023, against Newcastle United and was awarded West Ham’s Goal of the Month in November for a memorable scissor kick against Brentford.