Arsenal have stepped up their search for attacking reinforcements this summer, with West Ham star Mohammed Kudus reportedly emerging as a serious option. The Ghanaian international is believed to have been discussed internally by the Gunners’ recruitment team, as Mikel Arteta looks to add more firepower to his frontline ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Kudus is not the only name on Arsenal’s radar. Chelsea and Tottenham are also believed to be monitoring the West Ham forward, who enjoyed a promising debut season in the Premier League. Despite West Ham’s mixed campaign, Kudus stood out, contributing five goals and four assists across 35 appearances in all competitions. His versatility — capable of playing as a winger, attacking midfielder, or even centrally — makes him an appealing prospect for top-tier sides looking for adaptable, dynamic talent.
However, any move for Kudus won’t come cheap. Reports suggest the former Ajax man has a release clause in the region of £85 million, a fee that may deter suitors unless West Ham are willing to negotiate. The clause also attracted attention from Saudi Arabian clubs earlier in the window, but Kudus is understood to prefer staying in Europe, especially with Champions League football a potential lure from interested Premier League sides.
Arsenal’s interest in Kudus reflects their broader ambitions to revamp their forward line. Arteta’s side, despite an impressive campaign last season, have faced criticism for lacking clinical edge in crucial matches — a gap the club is desperate to address this summer.
Newcastle striker Alexander Isak was previously thought to be high on Arsenal’s wishlist, but the Swedish international now looks set to remain at St James’ Park. Isak’s importance to Newcastle and his own commitment to the Magpies have made any transfer unlikely, especially considering his hefty valuation, which rivals Kudus’ in cost.
Sporting Lisbon forward Viktor Gyökeres is another player heavily linked to the Gunners. The Swedish striker, who had a phenomenal season in Portugal, is keen on a Premier League move. However, his £84 million release clause has proven a sticking point, with Sporting showing little interest in negotiating a lower fee.
Elsewhere, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins have also been mentioned in connection with a move to the Emirates. Watkins’ proven Premier League pedigree and Šeško’s rising star profile make both attractive options, though Arsenal face stiff competition for either.
In addition to Kudus, Arsenal are also reportedly interested in Chelsea winger Noni Madueke. The England U21 star could become available this summer, with Chelsea’s aggressive transfer activity possibly pushing him down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge. Madueke’s pace and flair could offer Arsenal an edge on the flanks, particularly if other targets prove too expensive.
With a growing list of high-profile targets and a desire to add a prolific attacker, Arsenal are preparing for a busy and potentially expensive transfer window. While names like Isak and Gyökeres grab headlines, Kudus’ combination of Premier League experience, technical skill, and positional versatility may offer Arteta the ideal solution — if the Gunners are willing to meet West Ham’s demands.
As competition intensifies from rivals Chelsea and Spurs, Arsenal may need to act swiftly to secure their top targets and ensure they remain competitive at the highest level next season.
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