Published Wednesday 11 June 2025, 11:30 UK

In the ever-evolving world of football transfers, determining the right price for a player as talented and mercurial as Mohammed Kudus is no simple task.

For West Ham United, Kudus has been a revelation since arriving from Ajax. But as speculation over his future intensifies, particularly amid interest from top Premier League rivals, a crucial question looms large: just how much is too much for the Ghanaian star?

According to reports, there are three release clauses in Kudus’ current contract. While Saudi Arabian clubs have explored a move, the £125 million clause applicable to them has not been met — and Kudus himself is reportedly uninterested in a switch to the Middle East at this stage of his career.

Instead, the real threat to West Ham’s hopes of keeping their prized asset comes from within England. A number of Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, have been monitoring Kudus closely. For these domestic rivals, the release clause stands at £85 million — a figure that could see Kudus become one of the Hammers’ most lucrative ever sales, second only to Declan Rice.

Ally McCoist Weighs In on Kudus’ Potential and Value

One high-profile observer who has weighed in on the debate is Ally McCoist — the Rangers legend and popular TNT Sports pundit. Speaking to talkSPORT, McCoist expressed admiration for Kudus’ ability but questioned whether such a hefty transfer fee is justified.

“West Ham fans will be devastated to lose him,” McCoist said. “I think he would be an absolute superstar for Newcastle. But not for a fee in the region of £75 million! The price tag is just too much.”

McCoist’s comments reflect a broader dilemma that clubs face when pursuing Kudus. His explosive performances for West Ham — blending power, pace, flair, and versatility — make him a tantalising prospect for top sides looking to bolster their attacking options. But is he yet at the level to command a fee north of £75 million to £85 million?

Newcastle United’s Interest: The Perfect Fit?

McCoist sees Newcastle United as an ideal destination for Kudus if a deal can be struck. The Magpies are reportedly eager to add dynamism and creativity to their front line, particularly after a challenging season that exposed the need for greater attacking depth.

Kudus’ attributes could complement the likes of Anthony Gordon, Jacob Murphy, and Harvey Barnes in Eddie Howe’s setup. His fearsome running power, spectacular individual skills, and ability to operate across multiple attacking roles make him a natural fit for a team that thrives on direct, high-intensity football.

Former Newcastle manager Alan Pardew even described Kudus as “unplayable on his day,” highlighting the match-winning qualities that make him such an attractive target.

Complicated Transfer Talks: Chelsea’s Creative Proposals

While Newcastle remain interested, Chelsea have also emerged as strong contenders in the race for Kudus. According to Hammers News, Chelsea have already explored various creative proposals to lure the 24-year-old to Stamford Bridge.

In an intriguing twist, Chelsea even offered Jadon Sancho — who is set to return to Manchester United following the expiration of his loan — as part of a potential swap deal. Other players mentioned in those negotiations include Axel Disasi, Trevoh Chalobah, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Robert Sanchez, and Tosin Adarabioyo.

However, West Ham’s stance is clear: lowball offers or complex part-exchange deals will not suffice. A £50 million bid from Arsenal was reportedly “laughed out of the room,” reinforcing the Hammers’ determination to hold firm on their valuation.

Chelsea’s Tactical Fit: Kudus a Versatile Option

One former West Ham coach who believes Kudus would thrive at Chelsea is Edu Rubio, currently an assistant coach under Julen Lopetegui. Speaking to BBC Sport, Rubio outlined why the Ghanaian would be an excellent addition to Enzo Maresca’s evolving Chelsea squad.

“Kudus can add more attacking threat to Chelsea,” Rubio said. “With Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke often running down blind alleys, Kudus offers a more versatile and direct option. He can play down both flanks and come inside into the middle.”

Rubio added that Kudus fits perfectly into Maresca’s 4-2-3-1 system, offering both width and the ability to attack central spaces.

“But he can also add an aggressive high-press style. His approach to closing down the man on the ball is exceptional. He is rapid, intense, and effective with it.”

Rubio also believes Kudus can contribute valuable goals to Chelsea’s attack, something the Blues will need as they aim to build on their recent Conference League success.

“Kudus has a great work rate off the ball,” Rubio said. “He may need to improve his decision-making — sometimes a quick pass-and-go is more effective than taking on his man one-on-one. But overall, he can add goals, intensity, and contribute to a winning mentality.”

West Ham’s Perspective: Why the Hammers Won’t Budge

For West Ham, the situation is complex. Kudus is under a long-term contract, and the club would ideally like to retain him for another season at least. However, the release clauses in his deal limit their negotiating power if a suitable bid materialises.

At just 24 years old, Kudus is one of the most exciting attacking talents in the Premier League. His ability to create and score goals — coupled with his versatility across the forward line — makes him a coveted asset for any ambitious side.

Yet for West Ham, the financial realities of modern football mean that a sale at the right price could provide funds to reinvest across the squad, particularly as new manager Julen Lopetegui looks to reshape the team in his image.

Final Verdict: A Star on the Rise — But for What Price?

As the summer transfer window heats up, the Kudus saga is one to watch closely. His desire to remain in the Premier League rules out a Saudi move, while West Ham’s resolve to extract maximum value means this won’t be a straightforward negotiation.

For Newcastle, Kudus could be the player who takes their attack to the next level — but only if they’re prepared to break their transfer record. For Chelsea, the fit is tantalising, but the Blues will need to find common ground in terms of both valuation and squad balance.

As Ally McCoist astutely summed up: “He would be an absolute superstar for Newcastle — but not at that price.”

In the end, it will come down to which club is willing to meet West Ham’s demands — and whether Kudus himself sees the next chapter of his career unfolding in black and white stripes or in Chelsea blue.

Either way, expect the bidding to continue — and for Mohammed Kudus to remain at the heart of one of this summer’s most fascinating transfer stories.

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