West Ham United‘s second offer for Ajax forward Mohammed Kudus has been declined, according to sources from 90min.
The Hammers are seeking to bolster David Moyes’ attacking options and have been actively pursuing a deal for Kudus for several weeks. They even sent their technical director, Tim Steidten, to Amsterdam for face-to-face negotiations.
Ajax turned down the initial offer of €40 million (£34 million) last Saturday. They expressed interest in receiving additional funds from West Ham through performance-related add-ons.
However, Ajax has also rejected West Ham’s revised offer. Sources also indicate that Ajax is now aiming for a sum closer to €50 million (£42.5 million). Talks will persist between the two parties in the hopes of reaching an agreement.
While Brighton & Hove Albion had an offer accepted by Ajax earlier this summer, they couldn’t finalize personal terms with Kudus. Similarly, despite interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea at various times, no agreements were reached. Erik ten Hag, who had a close association with Kudus during his tenure as Ajax manager, displayed particular interest.
It’s worth noting that West Ham has yet to come to terms on a contract with Kudus. This opens the possibility for other interested clubs to make offers before the transfer window closes on September 1.
West Ham’s financial position has been boosted by the £105 million sale of Declan Rice to Arsenal this summer.
The club has already brought in Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse. Both players made their debut in a 3-1 victory over Chelsea at the London Stadium. Ward-Prowse, formerly the captain of Southampton, impressed with two assists for Nayef Aguerd and Michail Antonio.
Also, center-back Konstantinos Mavropanos is set to join West Ham from VfB Stuttgart. The 25-year-old’s transfer is anticipated to cost around £17 million, with the possibility of reaching £21.5 million if all included add-ons are fulfilled.