Chelsea are weighing a surprise summer swoop for West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus as new boss Enzo Maresca eyes dynamic firepower in his front line.
The Ghanaian star’s refusal to join Saudi clubs and West Ham’s £70m valuation have made him a hot prospect in Europe’s transfer market spotlight.
Chelsea has been presented with a surprise opportunity to sign West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus this summer. While the Blues have not yet made a formal move, the possibility remains open as the club evaluates attacking reinforcements under new manager Enzo Maresca.
The 24-year-old Ghanaian forward, who joined West Ham from Ajax in a £38 million deal in 2023, is expected to leave the London Stadium this summer. Kudus had a solid season, netting five goals across all competitions, and remains a valuable asset as West Ham prepares for a squad revamp under Graham Potter.
Kudus, known for his versatility and dynamism in attack, has attracted interest from clubs in the UEFA Champions League. Notably, he rejected a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League, choosing sporting ambition over a massive pay rise that would have tripled his salary. This decision has positioned him firmly on the radar of top European clubs.
Chelsea are said to be seriously considering the proposal, particularly after failing to close deals for other attacking targets. If they choose to pursue Kudus, they could face a hefty price tag, as West Ham reportedly hope to recoup close to £70 million, almost double their original investment.
Goalkeeper swap talk sparks further negotiations
During transfer discussions, West Ham inquired about Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. The Spanish shot-stopper previously worked with Potter during their time at Brighton and could be a potential option for the Hammers if Chelsea reinforces their goalkeeping department.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are closing in on top target Mike Maignan from AC Milan. The French international has informed the Serie A side of his desire to join the West London club. With his contract expiring next summer and no intention to renew, Milan could be forced to sell now rather than lose him for free.
Maignan’s arrival would likely push Sanchez down the pecking order, making an exit increasingly probable.
Kudus eyes exit amid squad shake-up
Kudus is reportedly open to leaving the Hammers this summer, as the club reshuffles ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. While West Ham has explored part-exchange deals involving multiple players, concerns over ballooning wages remain a challenge.
Despite his value and potential, West Ham has deemed only a few players, like Jarrod Bowen and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, untouchable in this window. Kudus, though admired, falls outside that category.
If Chelsea moves forward, they will be acquiring a player with elite European experience, a strong work rate, and untapped potential, all while adding depth to their attacking options ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup and the new Premier League season.
