Sport

Liverpool aim to beat Arsenal to Kudus’ signing from West Ham

Published

5 months ago

November 18, 2024

Yes, Liverpool’s transfer plans are certainly shaped by the ongoing contract situation with Mohamed Salah. His contract expiring in 2025 means that discussions about a potential extension have become increasingly important. While there have been reports that talks are underway, the “sizeable difference” in expectations could reflect a few things: Salah’s potential wage demands, his role in the team, and Liverpool’s future plans.

For Liverpool, securing Salah to a long-term deal is crucial not just for his performances on the pitch, but for the club’s commercial interests as well. He’s not only a key player but also one of the faces of the club globally. On the other hand, Salah’s side may be seeking a contract that reflects his status and influence, possibly asking for a higher salary or a more lucrative deal given his continued world-class form.

If the two sides can’t come to an agreement, it could force Liverpool to take a hard look at their future without Salah, which might include signing a new winger sooner rather than later. There’s been speculation that Liverpool might look to bring in another attacking player to eventually fill the gap, whether that be in this January window or next summer.

Wingers have been a priority for Liverpool in recent windows too, as they aim to add more depth and dynamism to their attack. Should Salah leave or be less involved in the future, Liverpool would likely be in the market for someone who can offer similar quality and versatility.

This report suggests that West Ham is firm on their valuation of the player, stating they will require the full £85 million release clause to be met in order to let the forward leave. The club seems unwilling to negotiate a lower price with any potential suitors, which signals their intention to stand by the player’s valuation. This could set up a scenario where any interested clubs will either meet the release clause or potentially move on to other targets if they are not willing to pay that amount.

This context suggests that Arsenal may not pursue Mohamed Kudus at the £85 million price point due to their current budget constraints and more pressing needs in other areas of the squad, such as potentially strengthening midfield or defense. Mikel Arteta likely has a clear plan for balancing the squad, so even though Kudus would be a strong addition, the high release clause might not align with Arsenal’s priorities right now.

On the other hand, Liverpool seems like a more plausible destination. With Mohamed Salah’s continued importance to the team and their ongoing quest to build a competitive squad, Liverpool might be more inclined to make a splash with an attacking addition like Kudus. The £85 million fee may not deter them as much, especially if they view him as a key future prospect or a long-term replacement/partner for Salah. Liverpool’s recent history of big-money signings, such as Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo, suggests that they are willing to back Jurgen Klopp in his attacking acquisitions if they believe the player fits into their system.

Kudus could be an exciting signing

Mohamed Kudus has had a slow start to the season with just two goals and an assist in 10 Premier League appearances, largely due to West Ham’s overall struggles. However, his talent and versatility make him an ideal option for Liverpool, where he could thrive in a more dynamic, attacking system.

Kudus is lightning-fast on the flanks, often outmuscling defenders when driving forward. His creative ability, honed during his Eredivisie days, remains a key strength. At 24, he’s still developing, and his versatility — capable of playing on either wing or as an attacking midfielder — adds further value, making him an even more attractive option for the future.

Arne Slot’s tactical setup, which has helped Kudus thrive in the Netherlands, could make him an even better fit at Liverpool. With their shared history, the pair could quickly rekindle that success in a more dynamic Premier League environment. If Liverpool are willing to splurge £85m next year, Kudus would undoubtedly be a fantastic signing.

However, Kudus’ move could depend on Salah’s future, with the outcome of Liverpool’s negotiations with the Egyptian international likely to play a key role.

Last Updated on November 18, 2024 by News Time

Post Views: 116

Sport

Tottenham eye summer move for West Ham’s Kudus

Published

7 days ago

April 11, 2025

News Time

Tottenham are enduring a disappointing season, currently sitting 14th in the Premier League. Their only realistic route to European football next season is winning the Europa League. Failure to do so could see Ange Postecoglou dismissed by the board.

Despite uncertainty over who will be in charge next season, Tottenham are already planning their summer moves. According to Ghana Soccer Net (h/t 90min), Spurs are keen to compete with Newcastle for the signing of West Ham’s dynamic forward, Mohammed Kudus.

Mohammed Kudus could move this summer for £80 million, and with Son Heung-min aging, Tottenham view the former Ajax star as a potential successor to their captain. The versatile 24-year-old can play as a left winger, center forward, right flank, or in advanced midfield roles.

Kudus not worth the price tag

Tottenham Hotspur clearly need to invest in their attacking options. With doubts surrounding Son Heung-min’s future, and potential departures for Richarlison and Timo Werner, the club has strong reason to explore alternatives. A versatile talent like Mohammed Kudus is certainly a player worth considering.

An £80 million price tag is far from ideal for a player who has scored just three goals and provided two assists in 25 Premier League appearances this season. While West Ham’s poor form and struggles may play a part, it still doesn’t justify such a high asking price for Mohammed Kudus.

For £80 million, Spurs could target a player with better statistics from elsewhere in Europe, or even strengthen multiple positions with an expected squad overhaul. It’s unclear if West Ham will be open to negotiations, but even with a reasonable discount, Kudus still may not be a financially attractive option.

Last Updated on April 11, 2025 by News Time

Post Views: 53

Sport

Liverpool ‘confident’ of beating Arsenal to Isak signing

Published

7 days ago

April 11, 2025

News Time

Liverpool lost 3-2 to Fulham at Craven Cottage last weekend, and while they’re still in the title race, a familiar issue resurfaced: a lack of goals from the forwards. The board is expected to address this weakness in the summer.

Signing a striker is set to be a top priority for Liverpool, especially with Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, and Luis Diaz all linked with possible exits. Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has emerged as a key target, and according to Graeme Bailey (via Rousing the Kop), the Reds are growing ‘confident’ of securing his signature.

Arsenal are also reportedly keen on Alexander Isak, with Mikel Arteta eager to bring in a new striker. This sets up a potential transfer battle between the Premier League rivals. Newcastle have valued the Swedish forward at £150 million, but that figure could drop if Isak pushes for a move.

Isak would be a dream signing for Liverpool

In recent days, Liverpool appear to have made encouraging progress toward keeping Mohamed Salah. If the Egyptian star stays, signing Alexander Isak would mark a major upgrade for the squad. The former Real Sociedad striker seems like the ideal partner to thrive alongside Liverpool’s talisman.

Isak has netted 24 goals and registered five assists across all competitions this season. Beyond his sharp finishing, he’s also effective at creating chances from deeper positions due to his strong hold-up play. That makes him a great fit not just for Salah, but also someone who could help unlock the best in Cody Gakpo.

Newcastle may hold off on any talks for Isak until the summer as they aim to finish the season without distractions. However, once the transfer window opens, all eyes will be on how strongly Liverpool pursue the striker—and just how much Newcastle are realistically willing to accept for their star forward.

Last Updated on April 11, 2025 by News Time

Post Views: 51

Sport

Porro and Van de Ven return as Postecoglou makes 5 changes | Predicted Tottenham XI vs Chelsea

Published

2 weeks ago

April 3, 2025

News Time

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou faces pressure to save his job, with his team’s performances under close scrutiny for the rest of the season. His next challenge is against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tonight, as Spurs aim to bounce back from just one win in their last five matches across all competitions.

Spurs have not won any of their last three Premier League matches, so there’s plenty of work to be done. However, with Manchester United losing to Nottingham Forest, a win could lift them to 12th in the league. Here’s a look at the team that could be tasked with securing an unlikely derby win over Chelsea.

Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario is likely to retain his place in goal ahead of Antonin Kinsky.

Defenders – Micky van de Ven may return to the centre-back role alongside Cristian Romero, while Pedro Porro could rejoin the lineup, possibly replacing Djed Spence at right-back. Destiny Udogie is expected to keep his place at left-back.

Maddison, Sarr and Son to start

Midfielders – Ange Postecoglou could make two changes in midfield. Yves Bissouma is likely to retain his spot as the defensive midfielder, while James Maddison and Pape Matar Sarr could start as the left and right midfielders, respectively. Though Dejan Kulusevski is close to full fitness, he is unlikely to be risked against Chelsea.

Forwards – Son Heung-min could replace Mathys Tel on the left wing, likely being the only change in the final third. Dominic Solanke is set to lead the line, while Brennan Johnson is expected to keep his place on the right wing.

Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by News Time

Post Views: 54