Chelsea Lead Race for West Ham’s Kudus

West Ham United have received multiple enquiries for attacking midfielder Mohammed Kudus, with Chelsea emerging as a leading contender through early discussions that include potential player-plus-cash deals involving Robert Sanchez and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Kudus, who has an £85 million release clause for Premier League clubs active for the first 10 days of July, is reportedly open to leaving for a Champions League side, making Chelsea an attractive destination. Although Chelsea’s initial approach has been turned down, they remain interested, while Arsenal and other domestic and overseas clubs are also monitoring the situation. Chelsea are aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of the Club World Cup, targeting AC Milan’s Mike Maignan and Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens. West Ham’s willingness to negotiate below the release clause may depend on deal structure or alternative offers. The ongoing transfer talks reflect the ambitions of both West Ham and Chelsea to reshape their squads for the coming season.