West Ham have signed midfielder, Mohammed Kudus from Ajax for £39.5m.
Kudus’ move comes after he enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Ajax last season with 18 goals and six assists in 42 appearances, as the Eredivisie club endured their worst domestic season since 2008-09 campaign.
Kudus who can be deployed as either a winger or attacking midfielder has signed a five-year contract with West Ham until June 2028, after the Seagulls saw off competition from Arsenal, Brighton, Chelsea and Manchester United for his signature in recent weeks.
Newcastle United were also reportedly rumoured to be interested in Kudus earlier this summer, only to since turn their attention elsewhere with the signings of Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes.
This move means that Kudus has left Ajax having scored 23 goals in 84 appearances, during which he helped the club clinch two Eredivisie titles and 2020-21 KNVB Cup.
West Ham have paid an initial fee of £36.9m to Ajax but the total fee could rise to £39.5m due to £2.6m of add-ons.
“I’ve been dreaming to play in a league like this since I was a kid,” commented Kudus who will wear shirt number 14 this season.
Kudus proceeded to add that he had wanted to play in England’s top flight as he continued: “I’ve been dreaming of this moment and I’m so happy to be here. But it doesn’t stop here, I want to keep going.
“I try my best to entertain the fans as I think that’s what football is all about. I’m just here to do my best and help the team. I’m really happy to be here. I will fight for the badge. I can’t wait to get started.”
Manager, David Moyes added that he is “delighted” to sign Kudus who he believes is “a terrific young talent,” with top-level experience – having made over 150 appearances at 23 years-old.
Moyes also iterated that Kudus’ signing is a statement of the club’s intent as he said: “The fact we’ve been able to attract a player of his undoubted quality to London Stadium shows the pull West Ham have now – the Board and Tim deserve huge credit for getting this one over the line.”
Kudus could make his debut for West Ham away to Luton Town in a 8pm BST kick-off on Friday 1 September, live on Sky Sports in the UK.
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