Tottenham agree £55m fee for West Ham’s Kudus

Tottenham Hotspur have successfully reached a £55 million agreement with London rivals West Ham United for the transfer of Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus. The deal, finalized after extended negotiations, marks a significant step forward in Spurs’ summer transfer activity under new manager Thomas Frank.

Kudus is now expected to undergo a medical examination later this week before putting pen to paper on what is understood to be a long-term contract with the North London club. Personal terms are reportedly close to being finalized, with both parties confident the deal will be completed smoothly.

The move comes after West Ham initially rebuffed a £50 million offer from Tottenham, holding out for a higher fee. According to reports from BBC Sport, the Hammers were firm in their stance before finally accepting the improved £55 million proposal. While the fee falls short of Kudus’ £85 million release clause, it still represents a considerable profit on the £38 million West Ham paid Ajax to sign the versatile midfielder just a year ago, in the summer of 2023.

During his time at the London Stadium, Kudus quickly established himself as a fan favorite and a key player. Over the course of 65 Premier League appearances, the 24-year-old contributed 13 goals and 9 assists, showcasing his technical ability, creativity, and knack for scoring crucial goals. His performances caught the attention of several elite clubs across Europe, with at least six top-tier sides reportedly making enquiries about his availability during the current transfer window.

Despite that strong interest, sources close to the situation suggest Kudus had a clear preference for a move to Tottenham. It is believed that the opportunity to play in a more attack-oriented system and potentially compete in European competitions next season played a key role in his decision. His versatility—capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, winger, or even as a forward—fits well with the tactical philosophy being implemented at Spurs.

Kudus’ impending arrival would mark a significant statement of intent by Tottenham, as they look to bolster their squad following a transitional 2024/25 campaign. The Ghanaian becomes the second summer signing for the club after Japanese defender Kota Takai, and further reinforces Spurs’ commitment to building a younger, more dynamic team.

If all goes to plan, Kudus is expected to join up with the squad ahead of their preseason tour, giving him ample time to integrate into the team before the Premier League season kicks off in August. Fans will be eager to see how he adapts to his new surroundings and what impact he can make in a Tottenham shirt.

The transfer also represents a notable piece of business for West Ham, who stand to make a sizable profit and now have additional funds to reinvest in their squad. While losing a player of Kudus’ caliber is a blow, the Hammers will be hopeful they can reinvest wisely and continue to build under their own long-term vision.

As things stand, all signs point to Kudus being unveiled as a Tottenham player in the coming days—pending a successful medical and final paperwork.