Andrea Berta - Arsenal - Chelsea
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Arsenal are keeping close tabs on West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus as Mikel Arteta targets a marquee attacking addition ahead of the 2025/26 season, according to multiple reports.
The 24-year-old Ghana international is drawing widespread interest from several Premier League heavyweights, including Tottenham, Chelsea, and Liverpool. The Gunners, however, are reportedly prioritising the addition of a wide forward who offers a different profile to their current attacking options.
Kudus, who joined West Ham from Ajax in August 2023 for £38 million, has a release clause of £85 million that becomes active for Premier League clubs on July 1. Arsenal, however, are said to be exploring a deal in the region of €55–€60 million (£46–£50.5 million), aiming to capitalise on West Ham’s need to raise funds to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) following a disappointing 14th-place finish in the Premier League.
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Kudus made an immediate impact in his debut campaign at the London Stadium, impressing with his flair, dynamism, and versatility. He contributed 18 goals and assists across all competitions during the 2023/24 season. However, his output dipped slightly in 2024/25, managing just eight goal involvements in 34 appearances.
Arsenal - Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus (Image credit: Getty Images)
With injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus exposing a lack of depth in Arsenal’s frontline, Arteta is keen to strengthen his squad ahead of another title push. Kudus’ ability to play as a right winger, attacking midfielder, or false nine makes him an attractive fit for the Gunners’ fluid system.
Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit. Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr have also indicated interest, but Kudus has reiterated his preference to remain in the Premier League. “Yes, 100 per cent that will be the focus,” he told Sky Sports when asked about his future.
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Despite Arsenal’s strong interest, challenges remain. Football Insider notes that some Gunners scouts have raised concerns about Kudus’ consistency, while former West Ham scout Mick Brown has urged caution, suggesting the player still needs to “step up” to justify a high transfer fee.
Liverpool also remain in the picture, with new manager Arne Slot said to be a long-time admirer of Kudus, once describing the Ghanaian as “incredible.” However, West Ham’s £125 million release clause for non-English clubs appears a non-starter, while the £85 million figure for domestic rivals could still prove too steep. Both Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly unwilling to meet that amount in full, leaving room for negotiation into July.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Kudus dates back to his time at Ajax, with Arteta having considered a move in 2023. Financial constraints following the big-money signing of Declan Rice put any deal on hold, but with the Gunners now in a stronger financial position, a renewed approach appears more feasible.
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