West Ham star open to transfer move — but not to Liverpool despite Arne Slot’s interest.

West Ham United’s talented forward, Mohammed Kudus, is reportedly open to a lucrative transfer to Saudi Arabia this summer, despite interest from several Premier League clubs.

The 24-year-old Ghanaian international has experienced a challenging 2024/25 season at the London Stadium, scoring just three goals across all competitions.

Since joining West Ham from Ajax for approximately £40 million in 2023, Kudus has showcased his dynamic playing style, earning attention from top clubs.

However, his struggles with form this season have raised questions about his future at the club.

Kudus’ electrifying performances in his debut Premier League campaign had previously sparked transfer speculation, with Arsenal and Liverpool linked to the winger last summer.

Liverpool, in particular, were frequently mentioned as a potential destination, with some reports suggesting Kudus could serve as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.

However, Salah’s recent contract extension has shifted the narrative, and Liverpool’s interest in Kudus may now take a backseat.

Despite this, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly praised Kudus, highlighting his quality and potential.

Following Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over West Ham, Slot commented on the strength of the Hammers’ squad, specifically singling out Kudus and teammate Lucas Paqueta for their standout performances.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Slot noted, “Kudus started to run everywhere and he was almost uncontrollable for us today.

That led to chances as they also have in [Jarrod] Bowen a player who can run behind the line.

It made it really hard for us, and Ali [Alisson] saved us multiple times.” Slot’s admiration for Kudus underscores the winger’s ability to impact games, even during a difficult season.

According to TBR Football, Kudus is “receptive” to a potential move to Saudi Arabia, a destination that could offer a significant financial incentive.

West Ham, under the incoming management of Graham Potter, are reportedly planning a major squad overhaul this summer, which could pave the way for Kudus’ departure.

The winger’s contract includes a release clause of £85 million for Premier League clubs, set to activate this summer.

For Saudi Arabian clubs, however, the clause reportedly rises to £120 million.

TBR Football suggests that while Saudi clubs may be willing to meet this higher figure, European clubs are more likely to pursue Kudus at a valuation closer to £50 million, well below his release clause.

Addressing Kudus’ struggles this season, Potter offered a supportive perspective last month, acknowledging the player’s disappointment but praising his work ethic.

“I think Mo has had probably a season that, from his perspective, would be a little bit disappointing, not because of his lack of effort or anything like that, but sometimes these things happen,” Potter said.

He emphasized Kudus’ commitment, noting, “He’s been great with us in terms of how he’s worked every day, fantastic.

He has built his fitness up, built his condition up to the point where he can sustain things a lot better now.”

Potter also highlighted Kudus’ broader contributions, even when the goals and assists have been lacking. “Football can go like that sometimes.

You can have a little spell when it doesn’t quite happen for you in front of goal or your final pass just doesn’t quite get there,” he explained.

“How he contributed, for example, against Arsenal in our win there, even though he didn’t score or assist, he was a top, top player in that game and massively helped us.”

Despite the dip in form, Potter remains optimistic about Kudus’ ability to turn things around, pointing to his underlying quality and potential to make a significant impact.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Kudus’ future remains a topic of intense speculation, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a serious contender for his signature.