A year ago
West Ham United is drawing closer to reaching an agreement with Ajax for the acquisition of Mohammed Kudus, as the Hammers persistently seek to enhance their attacking options.
Despite encountering two rejected bids by Ajax, including the latest offer of €40 million plus potential add-ons totaling £34 million, West Ham remains committed to securing Kudus's services. The drive to bolster their attacking capabilities has prompted continuous negotiations between the clubs. The collective efforts of manager David Moyes and technical director Tim Steidten underscore the club's determination to bring Kudus to London Stadium.
Sources have confirmed to 90min that a third bid has been submitted to Ajax, signaling West Ham's intent to press forward. Earlier in the summer, Ajax had already agreed to a fee with Brighton & Hove Albion for Kudus, an arrangement initially valued at €41 million with an additional €3 million in potential add-ons (£35 million + £2.5 million). However, the player intervened to halt the move.
The belief that Ajax may now accept the offer is substantiated by the emergence of a €50 million counterproposal from the Dutch club. The deal's viability hinges partly on West Ham's flexibility regarding payment terms, demonstrating the Conference League champions' willingness to adapt to Ajax's preferences.
Initially, West Ham had proposed a five-year installment plan for payment. However, their most recent bid presents a more appealing arrangement for Ajax. Additionally, the proposed deal features a 10% sell-on clause, stipulating that Ajax would be entitled to compensation if West Ham were to sell Kudus for €50 million or more in the future, mitigating the immediate financial shortfall.
Resolving personal terms is not anticipated to be an obstacle. The club is poised to finalize salary terms and bonus structures in consultation with Kudus and his representatives.
West Ham's midfield department has undergone strategic enhancements this summer, with the additions of Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse. The sale of Declan Rice to Arsenal for £105 million further fueled their recruitment efforts. In line with their ambitious transfer strategy, the club recently secured Konstantinos Mavropanos as their third major summer signing, securing the Greek player from VfB Stuttgart on a five-year contract.
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