Kudus is on his way to not Chelsea, not Brighton - but West Ham

West Ham are close to completing a transfer for attacker Mohammed Kudus from Ajax - at least that's what the so-called transfer gurus of the world claim.

The Premier League club have submitted an official offer worth $44.5 million plus $3.2 million in add-ons in a deal with a 10% sell-on clause. The proposal is expected to be accepted by their Eredivisie counterparts. Personal terms are in place for the 23-year-old to sign a five-year deal with the option of a sixth.

Chelsea had been linked to the World Cup star for quite a while this summer, and Brighton seemed to get close too, with an agreement agreed in principle earlier this month. He looks set to join Chelsea's London rivals now.

The Ghanaian international has spent three productive seasons in Amsterdam, registering 16 goals in 63 Eredivisie appearances. His impact extends to international play, where he has netted seven goals in 24 matches for the Black Stars, including two in the World Cup last year.

West Ham has taken steps to reinforce their midfield by acquiring Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse. Despite these additions, the club is actively pursuing further attacking reinforcements before the 1 September transfer deadline.

The Irons' next fixture is scheduled for this Saturday when they travel to face Brighton in the Premier League.