Premier League interest in signing Ajax star Mohammed Kudus is heating up further.
Arsenal were linked with a move for Mohammed Kudus earlier this summer. Now, West Ham United have had a bid for the player rejected, whilst Brighton’s earlier £40 million offer was accepted, but the move ultimately broke down, as reported by The Athletic.
The Hammers are chasing a £40 million deal of their own for the player, according to The Guardian.
On paper, Kudus would look like a smart signing for Arsenal. He is a technically-gifted and versatile attacker, who could offer cover for the likes of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and even Gabriel Jesus.
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However, there must be doubts as to whether Kudus could be anything more than a back-up option at the Emirates Stadium. The 23-year-old was in blistering form for Ajax last season, scoring 18 times in all competitions for the Dutch outfit, but asking him to replicate such productivity in the top flight of English football would be a big ask.
Considering the clubs now pushing to sign Kudus, namely West Ham, and formerly Brighton, gives an idea of where the consensus of Kudus’ level is.
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Both Brighton and West Ham have European football this season, and will be looking to impress in the Premier League. However, with all due respect, their goals aren’t as lofty as Arsenal’s, who are eyeing up another title tilt.
Mikel Arteta has shown this summer that he isn’t interested in signing back-up players. Even in the case of David Raya, who will be the No. 2 goalkeeper initially at least, he is clearly a figure who can seriously compete with Aaron Ramsdale for the starting berth between the sticks. Likewise, before his ACL injury, Jurrien Timber was staking a strong claim for a regular place in the Arsenal starting XI.
In all likelihood, Kudus wouldn’t be able to seriously push Saka, Havertz, or Jesus for their place in the team, as such, Arsenal look to have dropped out of the race for his signature.