Transfer Talk: Hammers to seek Kudus if Paqueta departs

West Ham are lining up an audacious move for Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus.

The Hammers are preparing for the possible departure of their Brazilian talisman Lucas Paqueta, with Manchester City set to place another bid for the 25-year-old.

A talkSPORT report claims the club are not keen on offloading another of their best players this summer but will not stand in Paqueta's way should the Premier League champions meet their valuation.

They can then reinvest the funds into Kudus, who would join new additions Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse in East London.

Brighton also hold a firm interest in Kudus and reportedly had a bid accepted for the Ghanaian international but were unable to agree personal terms.

Kudus, 23, kicked off his Eredivisie campaign with a goal in Ajax's 4-1 win over Heracles on Saturday and is capable of playing on the wing or through the middle.

He has 25 goal contributions in 64 league appearances for the Dutch giants.

In other news

Tottenham have identified Gent's Nigerian forward Gift Orban as the chosen successor to Harry Kane, according to Football Insider.

The Newcastle Chronicle believe that the Magpies have made contact with Arsenal regarding a possible transfer for Kieran Tierney.

Chelsea are considering a move for Crystal Palace star Michael Olise and may move for the Frenchman after their Romeo Lavia deal is secured, report football.london.