Arne Slot called West Ham United phenom Mohammed Kudus “incredible” after his powerful performance against Liverpool on Sunday but the Dutch manager should consider adding him to his transfer shortlist if he isn’t already on it.
The Hammers caused quite a stir at Anfield with their second-half display and while they didn’t technically score a goal – Andy Robertson did after being impeded by Virgil van Dijk – West Ham were a serious threat.
Van Dijk ultimately got the last laugh, winning the game with an 89th-minute winner to take Liverpool’s Premier League lead to 76 points and within two wins of being crowned champions.
Yet, Kudus will certainly have given the Reds’ recruitment staff something to consider as they weigh up possibilities ahead of the summer.
What’s the latest Mohammed Kudus transfer news?
On Tuesday, TBR Football reported that West Ham United are willing to sell Kudus this summer but the Ghanaian attacking midfielder may be set to leave the Premier League.
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey reports that “Kudus has a release clause of just over £80m” with some clubs enquiring about his availability even in the January transfer window.
Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle United all made contact with West Ham and were keeping a close watch on his situation but clubs in England do not relate to the Hammers’ £80m valuation.
Bailey reports: “The interest within England and Europe is not at the level close to his clause and perhaps nearer to £50m.
“Therefore, West Ham are ready to push Kudus to Saudi – enabling them to pocket a substantial profit on a player they paid Ajax just shy of £40m for in 2023.”
Kudus “receptive” to Saudi Pro League offers but Liverpool should at least tempt him to stay in the Premier League.
Bailey goes on to report that amid strong interest from the Premier League but little financial viability for those clubs to meet West Ham’s asking price, Kudus is open to the idea of moving to Saudi Arabia.
He wouldn’t be the first player about to hit his prime years tempted to make the move abroad for a huge tax-free salary. Yet, Liverpool should tempt him to stay in England with an offer of their own.
After Liverpool beat West Ham 2-1, Arne Slot said: “If we achieve something this year, it’s mainly to do with the mentality the players have shown. That’s what you saw today as well.
“Very difficult second half, we needed Alisson because Paqueta and Kudus were incredible the whole game.”
Kudus has stagnated somewhat but he needs a top team and Liverpool could really use a player of his unique technical calibre. But he’s also a fighter off the ball – something Arne Slot is impressed by.
That being said, his £80m price tag is not something Liverpool should be entertaining. If West Ham become flexible on that price point, it may well become an opportunity for Liverpool to pursue.
