Manchester United Enter Race for Chelsea Target Amid £85m Release Clause

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Mohammed Kudus, looking to challenge Chelsea and other Premier League clubs in the race for the West Ham United forward.

The 23-year-old Ghanaian international is attracting renewed interest this summer, with his £85 million release clause making him one of the more high-profile attacking options on the market.

Chelsea had initially approached West Ham with an offer that included cash plus either Robert Sánchez or Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as part of a proposed deal. However, the bid was turned down, and while manager Enzo Maresca remains keen to add a versatile forward to his squad, the Blues are currently prioritising a move for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens.

Kudus is believed to be open to a move away from the London Stadium, particularly if it means playing European football. He impressed in his first season at West Ham following a £38 million transfer from Ajax in 2023, but had a quieter 2024/25 campaign, registering five goals in 35 appearances across all competitions.

According to The Guardian, West Ham manager Graham Potter is not opposed to letting Kudus leave if the club receives a suitable offer, and Manchester United have now reportedly identified him as a viable attacking option. United, who are seeking to refresh their forward line, see Kudus as a flexible player who can operate across multiple attacking positions.

The situation is developing as clubs prepare for a competitive summer transfer window.