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Ajax winger Mohammed Kudus has emerged as a target for Chelsea as the Blues look to beat Arsenal to the punch.
The Ghana international has been tipped to leave the Dutch side this summer after their failure to qualify for the Champions League. Last season's Premier League runners-up had looked to lead the way over a deal, but Chelsea look unlikely to let them get a deal over the line with no resistance.
Kudus' 18 goals saw him end the 2022-23 campaign as Ajax's top scorer in all competitions, while Dutch legend Marco van Basten has argued he's better than former team-mate Antony, who moved to Man Utd last summer. Arsenal have already done business with Ajax this summer, bringing in versatile youngster Jurrien Timber, but a second deal could be trickier.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea have made contact with the Amsterdam club over a potential deal. They are yet to lodge an official bid, but their interest has been made clear.
Pochettino's side have already bolstered their forward line this season, adding Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson to their ranks. There is room for more additions, though, with Christian Pulisic, Kai Havertz and Pierrer-Emerick Aubameyang among those to leave.
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Kudus scored five goals in Europe last term, netting against Rangers, Napoli and Liverpool in the Champions League. He was also one of the bright spots in Ghana's early World Cup exit, scoring twice in their only win of the tournament.
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Mohammed Kudus has caught the eye with his performances for Ghana and Ajax (AFP via Getty Images)
“I think it is best for both Ajax and Mohammed that he makes a transfer now," Kudus' agent Jennifer Mendelewicz told De Telegraaf earlier in the summer. "Now is the right time.
"He has ignored a proposal to extend his contract until the summer of 2026. What I can say is that after the World Cup and this season there is a lot of interest in Kudus.”
Antony's move from Ajax to Man Utd last summer might give some a moment's pause, with the Brazilian blowing hot and cold in his first season in England. However, based on Van Basten's comments, those fears could be eased.
"I find Mohammed Kudus a much better football player than Antony," the former striker told Ziggo Sport. "Antony has his skills, but he is confused with the things he is trying to do! Kudus has much better technique and he knows what he is doing. Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical.
"He is much more of a footballer, you can place him anywhere on the pitch, an all-rounder for the team." The Dutch great then added: "In fact, I like him much better than Antony. He’s more fun to watch play."
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