Ghana gem rejected Saudi millions, Chelsea is on the move

The calls from Saudi Arabia keep coming. Many have given in, lured by money, and agreed to leave European football behind for richer contracts. Financially, they’ve done well, but only they know what they’ve truly lost. Most who made the move were in the twilight of their careers, though some were younger. And there will surely be more heading to the Middle East this June — but not Mohammed Kudus. It’s pointless to keep trying — he’s just built differently. He still wants to play, to enjoy football, not to stuff vaults with sacks of money. He’s already wealthy, not exactly struggling. Kudus has turned down the chance to move to Saudi Arabia — a decision that doesn't make things easier for West Ham.

The London club will now have to find another way to raise funds. Yes, selling the talented winger is still on the table — but only to clubs playing in the Champions League. That’s Kudus’s one firm requirement. He might consider other offers, he might bend in some areas, but on this, he’s resolute — even if it means turning down a contract worth three times his current salary, reportedly offered by an unnamed Saudi club. It’s almost certain Kudus will leave West Ham this June, as the Hammers need funds to meet the demands of new manager Graham Potter. Offloading Kudus seems the most viable option. The only question is — for how much?

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The move will almost certainly pay off. West Ham paid Ajax 43 million euros for him — and now expect to sell for significantly more. They’re hoping for as much as 83 million. And they already have an idea of where such an offer might come from — just across town. The moment news broke that Kudus had no intention of moving to Saudi Arabia, Chelsea’s name entered the mix. The Blues have been offered the chance to sign him — though they remain silent for now. But if there’s one club known for spending big, often on players they might need, it’s Chelsea.