West Ham United midfielder Mohammed Kudus is unlikely to depart the club next summer, with his substantial £85 million release clause being a key factor, according to former Hammers scout Mick Brown.
Kudus, who joined West Ham from Ajax in the summer of 2023, has attracted interest from top Premier League clubs such as Arsenal and Chelsea. However, Brown believes that the high price tag could deter potential suitors from making a move for the Ghanaian star.
"I’ve seen an £85 million release clause mentioned; I’ve heard that could put some of the interested clubs off," Brown told Football Insider. He further explained that while some top clubs could meet the fee, they may not have a pressing need for a player like Kudus in their squad.
"Liverpool won’t be able to afford it; where would he fit in the Arsenal team? Where does he go in the Chelsea team?" Brown added, casting doubt on the possibility of Kudus moving to one of these elite teams next summer.
Kudus enjoyed a standout debut season at West Ham, scoring 13 goals across all competitions. However, this season has proven more challenging, with the player struggling to find his form. He recently broke a seven-match goal drought with a strike against Ipswich, as he works to regain his confidence.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, the high release clause may ensure Kudus remains at the London Stadium for the foreseeable future.
