Liverpool could get a boost in their pursuit of Mohammed Kudus as West Ham opens talks for a £25m deal
Liverpool face potential competition from West Ham United in their pursuit of Palmeiras wonderkid Luis Guilherme. This development, however, might turn out beneficial for the Reds in the long run.
At just 18, Luis Guilherme is emerging as the latest talent from Palmeiras, akin to Endrick, who has already secured a move to Real Madrid. The young forward is attracting interest from nine top European clubs. Liverpool, alongside five other Premier League teams, have been monitoring him closely over the past year. Recent reports indicate Liverpool were leading the race for Guilherme, who has been compared to Brazil’s World Cup winner Rivaldo.
Luis Guilherme recently extended his contract with Palmeiras until 2026, which includes a €55 million (£47 million) release clause. Nonetheless, it’s been suggested that a bid of around €35 million (£30 million) plus bonuses could suffice to secure his transfer. The Guardian reports that West Ham have initiated talks with Palmeiras, proposing a £25 million deal for the forward.
Primarily playing on the right but also capable of operating on the left or as an attacking central midfielder, Luis Guilherme’s versatility is particularly intriguing for Liverpool. These positions overlap with those of Mohammed Kudus at West Ham. Kudus, linked to Anfield as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, has a release clause of £85 million that activates next year. However, Liverpool are reportedly planning a bid below this rate in the upcoming summer window.
The ongoing betting investigation involving Lucas Paqueta may hinder West Ham’s expected significant payout from Manchester City, potentially making them more inclined to negotiate a lower price for Kudus. If West Ham views Luis Guilherme as Kudus’ replacement, it could benefit Liverpool’s efforts to sign the Ghanaian and mitigate the disappointment of missing out on the Brazilian talent.
Despite his promise, Luis Guilherme lacks experience at the highest level. Should West Ham succeed in signing him, their likely plan would involve easing him into the Premier League over a year or two before he assumes a key role in the first team.
