In what could be one of the most dramatic transfer twists of the summer, Tottenham Hotspur are targeting a deal for Mohammed Kudus from bitter rivals West Ham United, with talks underway to make the Ghanaian international the first player to move directly between the two London clubs in over a decade.
According to Matt Law of The Telegraph, Spurs have identified Kudus as their top attacking target and are optimistic they can strike a deal for well below his £85 million release clause, which is only active during the first 10 days of July.
In a development that would end Tottenham’s unofficial transfer freeze with West Ham — which dates back to Scott Parker’s move in 2011 — the club are preparing to test the waters with Kudus, who is understood to be open to a switch across London.
“Tottenham Hotspur want to break their unofficial transfer embargo with West Ham United and make Mohammed Kudus the first player to move directly from their fierce London rivals in over 10 years,” wrote Matt Law.
Spurs Move Fast as Kudus Interest Intensifies
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed Spurs’ interest, reporting that Kudus is “high on the list” of attacking options being explored by the club.
“Tottenham have genuine interest in Mohammed Kudus and he’s high on the list for this summer, as @Matt_Law_DT reports,” Romano tweeted. “Initial contacts took place with his new agents, while there are more clubs also involved. Kudus is open to Spurs talks.”
While Chelsea had previously been in the race, they are now focused on other targets, including Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro — clearing the way for Spurs to make their move.
Frank’s Ideal Forward
New head coach Thomas Frank is understood to be a major driving force behind the pursuit. Kudus, 24, would bring not only Premier League and Champions League experience, but also the tactical versatility to play in any role behind the striker — a trait Frank values immensely in his fluid attacking systems.
Spurs had previously considered moves for Bryan Mbeumo, Antoine Semenyo, and Eberechi Eze, but Kudus has now emerged as the most viable and high-upside option. His ability to slot into multiple attacking roles makes him a perfect complement to the likes of James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Brennan Johnson, and even Son Heung-min, who could see more minutes in a central role under Frank.
West Ham Open to Sale as Rebuild Looms
With Graham Potter beginning his rebuild at West Ham, the Hammers are reportedly open to selling Kudus in order to raise funds for squad reinforcements. Spurs are hoping to capitalise on that situation — although no formal bid has been lodged yet.
As per Matt Law, Tottenham will likely need to generate funds through player sales this summer before finalising any major incomings. There is also a possibility of new investment, either from owners ENIC or outside sources, to assist with financing the rebuild under Frank.
Levy Set to Defy History
If a deal is struck, Daniel Levy would effectively be reversing his own stance. The Spurs chairman previously blocked a move that would have seen Emmanuel Adebayor join West Ham back in 2015, and there has been no direct business between the clubs since Parker’s switch in 2011.
Breaking that long-standing rift would be a significant shift — but more importantly, signing Kudus would signal a clear intent from Levy and Frank to challenge at the top end of the Premier League next season.
Conclusion: A Defining Deal?
Mohammed Kudus to Spurs isn’t a done deal yet, but there’s a growing sense that this is more than just transfer gossip. It’s a litmus test for Tottenham’s ambition under Thomas Frank, a chance to heal fractured local rivalries, and perhaps most significantly, an opportunity to land one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents.
Whether Levy can finally break that West Ham embargo — and land Kudus at a cut-price fee — may define the tone of Spurs’ entire summer.
