United refusing to give up on West Ham livewire despite failing with swap deal offer, £85m star pushing for an exit – report

Manchester United are reportedly still interested in West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus, even after a previous swap deal proposal was turned down.

United’s top priority this summer is adding goals to the team after a toothless season that saw the club finish in 15th place and with a -10 goal difference.

The Red Devils have already confirmed the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and work is underway to get a deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo over the line. United are also believed to be eyeing a striker amidst uncertainty over the future of the uninspiring Rasmus Hojlund.

But it appears United have more plans up their sleeve, with The Guardian reporting that Amorim’s side are still eager to bring in Kudus.

Kudus burst onto the Premier League scene in style, netting eight goals and supplying nine assists in 33 appearances, quickly establishing himself as one of the most dangerous attackers in England. However, his output dipped slightly last season, registering five goals and three assists – still a respectable return, especially given West Ham’s broader struggles.

A report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that United approached West Ham with an offer involving Jadon Sancho as part of a proposed swap deal for Kudus.

Sancho spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Chelsea, but the Blues chose not to trigger the obligation to buy, sending him back to United, who are now actively exploring options to offload him.

West Ham turned down United’s offer, showing no interest in taking Sancho as part of the deal. Reports later suggested the Hammers had reservations about the England international’s professionalism. These rumours were firmly denied by Sancho’s camp.

It appears United have not given up hope of signing Kudus.

According to The Guardian, United are still in the race to sign him but they face stiff competition from Chelsea. Enzo Maresca’s side have already opened talks with West Ham.

Jacob Steinberg reveals, “Chelsea failed with an initial approach for Kudus, who is also a target for Manchester United, Newcastle and one other unnamed Premier League club.”

“Talks took place with West Ham, who are looking to raise funds by selling Kudus, after Chelsea were offered an opportunity to sign the Ghana international.”

“Discussions have continued but there has not been a formal bid. Chelsea have proposed including players in any transfer but West Ham want a straight sale and were similarly uninterested when United suggested a swap.”

It’s understood Kudus has an £85m release clause, which is valid for Premier League clubs for the first 10 days of July.

On his part, Kudus wants to leave West Ham as he feels he is ready to take the next step in his career.

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