Mohammed Kudus’ dream move to the English Premier League (EPL) could be delayed after his present Ajax asked West Ham to increase their purchasing price.
Ajax has declined an initial bid of €40 million plus potential add-ons from West Ham United for the transfer of midfielder Mohammed Kudus. The Dutch club has reportedly set a minimum additional valuation of €10 million before considering the sale of the player.
Kudus has emerged as a significant player for Ajax, attracting the attention of several elite European clubs, including West Ham.
However, Ajax’s response indicates that the London-based club’s offer fell short of their valuation. During the summer transfer window, Kudus was linked with potential moves to Premier League sides Chelsea and Arsenal.
There were also reports that Brighton had reached a club-record €40 million agreement with Ajax for the Ghanaian midfielder, but Kudus reportedly declined the offer due to disagreements over personal terms. Although Kudus has agreed on personal terms with West Ham, negotiations between the clubs have proven challenging.
Ajax’s dissatisfaction with West Ham’s initial offer is seen as a primary hurdle to finalizing the deal. Kudus has demonstrated his form and influence on the field by contributing both goals and assists in two games this season, earning him a place in the Eredivisie team of the week. In the 2022–2023 season, Kudus notably netted 11 goals and provided three assists for Ajax in league matches.
Ajax has expressed their reluctance to sell, and it is noteworthy that Kudus has commenced both Eredivisie matches for the Dutch club this season, scoring in the opening game and providing an assist in the second.
Kudus, a Ghanaian international who participated in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is currently in the final two years of his contract.
It should be noted that there has been no formal offer for Youssef En-Nesyri, the Moroccan international striker who has also entered the final two years of his contract, but West Ham has initiated discussions with Sevilla regarding his acquisition.