Frustrated Premier League forward with £85m release clause tells agent to contact Liverpool over move: Reports
West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus reportedly wants to join Liverpool. The Ghanian attacker is one of the Hammers' most important players, but their poor season has made him consider his future.
The Anfield Watch (via Caught Offside) reports that Kudus has instructed his agents to contact Arne Slot's league leaders to gauge the possibility of a move to Anfield. He's grown frustrated with West Ham's lack of progress and isn't impressed with their recent recruitment.
Kudus, 24, is seeking a move away and has his sights set on Liverpool. He has a release clause in his contract worth around £85 million, which becomes active next summer.
The versatile forward arrived at the London Stadium from Ajax in August 2023 for a reported £38 million. He's been a mainstay in the Hammers' starting XI and managed 16 goals and seven assists in 55 games across competitions.
Kudus' frustrations with West Ham's disappointing form under new manager Julen Lopetegui boiled over last weekend. He was sent off for violent conduct in a 4-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur.
Liverpool might be interested in Kudus, with speculation continuing to grow over Mohamed Salah's future. The Egyptian forward's contract expires next summer and the Saudi Pro League continues to be touted as a potential destination.
"That's how I want to play" - Mohammed Kudus idolized Liverpool hero Thiago Alcantara
Kudus' versatility makes him such an impressive talent, and he shone at Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena. The Ghana international often played in attacking midfield and central midfield for the Eredivisie giants.
It appears Kudus studied his midfield game on former Liverpool star Thiago Alcantara. He spoke highly of the now-retired Spanish playmaker years ago and his style of play (via OneFootball):
"I loved his playing style as a kid. I like creativity. When I played in Denmark, a friend of mine got me a shirt from him. That was fantastic. The shirt hangs at my house and I’m very proud of it."
Kudus took inspiration from Thiago's playing profile:
"Sometimes he plays as a number six but, despite his defensive duties, he doesn’t lose his creativity. No matter where he plays, he always finds the balance between defending and attacking. That’s how I want to play too."
Thiago unfortunately spent much of his Anfield spell on the sidelines due to injury issues but was a spectacular playmaker when fit. He made 98 appearances for the Merseysiders, bagging three goals and six assists.