West Ham United sensation Mohammed Kudus has disclosed that he turned down offers from Arsenal and Chelsea to join the Hammers, enticed by their compelling long-term vision.
Since his move from Ajax for £38 million in the summer, Kudus has swiftly become a pivotal figure at the London club, tallying an impressive 13 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions in the 2023/24 season.
While David Moyes expressed keen interest in acquiring Kudus, other clubs also pursued the Ghanaian international. Brighton had agreed on a record fee with Ajax, while Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United were also in the mix for the 23-year-old’s signature.
However, ahead of West Ham’s recent 4-3 defeat to Newcastle, Kudus disclosed that he followed his instincts in choosing the Irons.
“I was ready to make that step after the season I had at Ajax. I’m a player who doesn’t want to be in my comfort zone. I could have stayed at Ajax. I knew the league, I knew the club. But I don’t want to be complacent and comfortable. I always want to challenge myself.
“All the clubs you mentioned, it’s true they were in contact. But when West Ham came it moved fast and I made my decision based on speaking to people around the club, their project and how they see me as a player.
“I made the decision based on my gut feeling. That’s how I make my decisions. Whatever the ramifications are, I take it upon myself.”
Kudus’ exceptional goal against Newcastle marked his seventh in the Premier League this season, accompanied by four assists in 25 appearances, highlighting his integral role in West Ham’s dynamic attacking lineup alongside Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta.