WEST HAM are attempting to hijack Brighton’s swoop for Mohammed Kudus, according to reports.
The Hammers are keen on the Ajax star, who impressed at the World Cup with Ghana last year.
Mohammed Kudus was in action for Ajax over the weekendRex
It was previously believed that Brighton had sealed a £39million deal to sign Kudus this summer.
But the Seagulls have so far failed to agree personal terms with the 23-year-old, opening the door to other suitors.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, West Ham have now begun talks with Ajax to sign Kudus.
The attacker, who has previously been linked with Manchester United, could join the Hammers if Lucas Paqueta moves to Man City.
Paqueta, 25, has reportedly agreed personal terms with City, with boss David Moyes having admitted that his star man has had his head turned.
Moyes is determined to keep Paqueta this summer, but Hammers chiefs are covering themselves just in case.
It’s claimed that there have been “positive talks” with Kudus, who is “open to the move”.
Romano adds that the deal will hinge on what happens with Paqueta.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
On the situation, Moyes said over the weekend: “We’ve had an offer from Manchester City, it’s not close enough to our valuation, so at the moment we have no decision [to make].”
On whether Paqueta’s head has been turned, Moyes added: “There are a couple of football clubs in the world who could turn your head quite easily.
“Let’s be fair, Manchester City are probably one of them.
“I brought Lucas up to speed with everything I know. He’s fully aware of everything. I explained to him where we’re at, what’s been said, so he knows.”
Kudus, meanwhile, started Ajax’s Eredivisie opener over the weekend – finding the net in a 4-1 win over Heracles Almelo.
Last term he bagged 18 goals in 42 outings in all competitions for the Amsterdam giants.
TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and confirmed switches from the world of football
Lucas Paqueta has ‘had his head turned’ by Manchester CityRex