**Arsenal and Liverpool Eye West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus Amid Champions League Ambitions**
Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly targeting West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus as the Ghanaian star looks to secure a move away from the London club. The 24-year-old winger joined the Hammers last summer for £38 million from Ajax, following standout performances in the Champions League. However, Kudus is now keen on returning to Europe’s top competition.
**Champions League Aspirations**
According to *The Daily Mail’s* Sami Mokbel, Kudus is open to leaving West Ham in the near future, especially if a club offering Champions League football comes calling. Both Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly monitoring the situation, with each showing strong interest in the versatile attacker.
Kudus’ contract with West Ham includes an £85 million release clause, which both Arsenal and Liverpool are said to be considering. While Saudi Arabian clubs are also showing interest, Kudus appears more inclined to remain in Europe for now.
West Ham holds the advantage in negotiations, as Kudus’ contract runs until 2028. The club is unlikely to part with him unless his release clause is met, ensuring they maintain control over his future. Kudus’ desire to play in the Champions League could ultimately play a key role in his decision.
**Liverpool’s Interest Tied to Salah’s Uncertain Future**
Liverpool’s pursuit of Kudus may be linked to the unresolved situation regarding Mohamed Salah’s future. The Egyptian forward, now 32, is nearing the end of his contract at Anfield, and no new deal is believed to be close. Although Liverpool are working on extending Salah’s stay, his potential departure would leave a significant hole in their attacking lineup.
Kudus, capable of playing on both wings or as a central attacking midfielder, offers versatility that could make him an ideal successor to Salah. His ability to adapt to various attacking roles would be a valuable asset for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, should Salah choose to leave.
**Arsenal’s Competitive Edge**
Arsenal also present a serious challenge to Liverpool in the race for Kudus. With their recent return to the Champions League and their upward trajectory under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners offer an attractive destination for the 24-year-old. If both clubs are willing to meet Kudus’ £85 million release clause, the final decision will likely come down to the player’s preferences.
**The Road Ahead**
While Kudus’ immediate future remains up in the air, his ambition to play in the Champions League makes a move to either Arsenal or Liverpool a strong possibility. Although West Ham may be hesitant to let him go, the £85 million release clause ensures they will receive significant compensation if he departs.
For now, Kudus remains an important figure at the London Stadium, but the increasing interest from two Premier League heavyweights suggests that his time with West Ham could soon be coming to an end. Whether he ends up at Anfield, the Emirates, or another club, Kudus is set to make a significant impact at his next destination.
