Transfer Talk: Chelsea contact Ajax about Kudus signing

Chelsea have made contact with Ajax over the signing of versatile forward Mohammed Kudus.

The Blues have not yet made an offer for the 22-year-old Ghana international, whose current contract expires in 2025.

However, dialogue is said to have taken place between the two European giants.

Kudus was one of the Amsterdam-based outfit's standout players last season as he bagged 18 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions.

David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that Chelsea are close to agreeing personal terms with the young star as they look to further beef up their attack ahead of the new season.

Mauricio Pochettino has already added Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson to his squad this summer, with both forwards on target in the recent 4-3 pre-season win over Brighton.

Kudus joined Ajax in July 2020 from Norwegian side Nordsjaelland and his first two seasons with the club were hampered by injuries.

But the 2022-23 campaign saw him establish himself as one of European football's hottest prospects and he also scored two goals for Ghana in the Black Stars' 3-2 victory over South Korea at the 2022 World Cup.

In other news

Football Insider report that Michail Antonio, 33, is keen to quit West Ham this summer and join Steven Gerrard at Saudi side Al-Ettifaq.

Crystal Palace are ready to make a move for Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte, say the Daily Star, with the Citizens prepared to accept a loss on the 29-year-old.

According to the Daily Mail, Galatasaray have offered free agent Wilfried Zaha, 30, a contract worth £8million a year.