Tottenham Hotspur have officially announced the signing of Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus from rivals West Ham United for a reported £55 million. The 24-year-old versatile attacker, who has penned a six-year contract with Spurs until 2031, becomes the first major signing under new head coach Thomas Frank and marks the first direct transfer between the two London clubs since Scott Parker’s move in 2011. Kudus will don the number 20 shirt, previously worn by Tottenham icons like Dele Alli and Michael Dawson, as he aims to ignite Spurs’ attacking line in their pursuit of a top-six finish and Champions League glory.
Kudus, who joined West Ham from Ajax in 2023 for £38 million, quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic talents. During his two-year stint with the Hammers, he made 80 appearances, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists across all competitions. His electrifying dribbling, pace, and ability to break defensive lines—evidenced by completing 216 dribbles in the Premier League over the past two seasons—made him a standout performer. However, an inconsistent 2024/25 campaign, where he scored five goals and provided three assists in 32 league games, coupled with West Ham’s 14th-place finish, prompted the move. Despite a reported £85 million release clause, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy negotiated a deal significantly below that figure, a point of contention among West Ham supporters.
In a statement released by Tottenham, the club expressed their delight: “We are delighted to announce the signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United, subject to work permit.” The announcement video, set to a track by Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy and featuring a nod to Kudus’ signature plastic stool celebration, underscored the excitement surrounding his arrival. Kudus himself was unequivocal about his choice, saying in Spurs’ announcement video, “I only wanted Spurs.” This sentiment was echoed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who noted, “Kudus was very clear in his intentions despite calls and approaches from several clubs. He wanted to play for Spurs, and now the deal is completed.”
The transfer has sparked mixed reactions. Tottenham fans are thrilled, with many believing Kudus’ flair and versatility will elevate their attack under Frank’s high-tempo system. “Kudus could be the spark we’ve been missing,” said lifelong Spurs supporter Emma Clarke. “His ability to glide past defenders and score spectacular goals is exactly what we need to challenge for trophies.” Conversely, West Ham fans have expressed frustration, with some labeling Kudus a “snake” and “Judas” for joining their rivals. A statement from West Ham was notably curt: “West Ham United can confirm that Mohammed Kudus has completed a transfer to Tottenham Hotspur for an undisclosed fee. We wish him well for the future.”
The move is seen as a coup for Tottenham, who fended off interest from Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Saudi Pro League clubs to secure Kudus’ signature. His decision was reportedly influenced by Spurs’ Europa League triumph over Manchester United and their ambition to compete in the Champions League. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, a prominent Ghanaian figure, celebrated the transfer, posting on X, “I am excited to see our Ghanaian starboy make this move to my Spurs. All the best in your medical, Mohammed Kudus.”
Kudus’ arrival could herald a new era for Spurs, who are also close to finalizing a £60 million deal for Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White. With a potential debut looming in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain, Kudus is poised to make an immediate impact. “I’m here to become Tottenham’s talisman,” he said in his first interview with Spurs, citing the club’s ambition, style of play, and Champions League aspirations as key reasons for his move.