West Ham have reacted to reports that winger Mohammed Kudus is a target for cash-rich Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.
The club, which boasts a squad containing Cristiano Ronaldo, Jhon Duran, and former Hammers target Wesley, were reportedly keen to snap up Kudus in an £84m transfer.
However, after speaking to a top-placed source at the London Stadium, Claret & Hugh can reveal that no offer has been received by West Ham for the winger.
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When we asked the club insider if there was anything to the reports, we were told: “We have had no bid at this point in time.” The comments may indicate that the Hammers hierarchy could be expecting a bid at some stage, but there has certainly not been one so far.
As one transfer insider with close connections to the club pointed out: “Why would anyone declare their interest now? They can just pay the release clause in the summer.”
Kudus had a two-week window last summer during which West Ham were contractually obligated to accept any bids of £85m for the Ghanaian. That same release clause is also active in the upcoming window.
Realistically, there is very little the club can do to keep the wideman at the London Stadium. When Kudus joined from Ajax in the summer of 2023, he was arriving at a club that had just won the Europa Conference League and was still competing in European football.
And despite West Ham’s defensive troubles during David Moyes’ final season, the team were scoring freely and playing in a way that allowed Kudus to shine.
Under Julen Lopetegui and now Graham Potter, Kudus has looked a shadow of his former self — and if there’s a chance to recoup £85m, it may be best for all concerned.