Newcastle United have reportedly stepped up their interest in Mohammed Kudus, with The Athletic claiming the Magpies have held internal talks about a potential move for the Ghanaian star.

It’s a story that’s becoming all too familiar for West Ham fans and one that could be the first major flashpoint of the club’s summer.

From Promise to Puzzle at West Ham

When Kudus arrived in East London, he was seen as the spark for a new era. A dynamic, technically gifted attacker fresh off an electric spell with Ajax, he was meant to be the man to take West Ham to the next level. And to be fair, in his debut campaign, he looked every bit the real deal.

But last season? A different story.

Whether due to a lack of structure, confidence, or support around him, Kudus struggled to replicate his initial impact. The raw talent is still there – you can’t unteach the kind of close control, burst of pace, and eye for goal that Kudus has shown. But he’s been drifting in and out of games in a system that’s failed to bring the best out of him.

And in truth, many now feel he’s the kind of player who would flourish in a more attack-minded, better-balanced side. Which is exactly what Newcastle are building.

Newcastle See Opportunity

Eddie Howe’s side are undergoing their own evolution and, after missing out on Bryan Mbuemo, have identified Kudus as a key alternative. He fits their model: young, versatile, and Champions League-proven.

From Newcastle’s side, the appeal is clear. Kudus could ease the burden on Isak and Gordon, slotting in across the frontline or behind the striker. His 19 goals and 13 assists in 80 appearances may not scream world-beater, but there’s a feeling that in the right team (with a more fluid attacking style, he could explode.

West Ham’s Dilemma

Now here’s the thing: West Ham might just let it happen.

With the club operating under a sell-before-you-buy philosophy and major rebuilds needed across the pitch, Kudus is seen by many behind the scenes as the golden asset – the cash cow.

His £85 million release clause gives West Ham a degree of leverage, but there’s talk of Newcastle exploring a £70 million offer, and if the Irons are desperate for funds, a compromise may be on the cards.

Let’s be honest, the club have been here before. Big players being moved on to fund broader recruitment. But with fans craving ambition under the new management, losing Kudus after just two seasons especially without ever really unlocking his best would be a bitter pill to swallow.

Chelsea Still Lurking

It’s also worth remembering that Newcastle aren’t alone.

Chelsea were previously strongly linked, and with European football back on their agenda, they could re-enter the race.

Both clubs offer the one thing West Ham currently can’t: Champions League football. For a player with clear ambition, that could be decisive.

What Happens Next?

For now, it’s all talks and speculation. But where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire  and West Ham fans are bracing themselves.

Whether the club holds out for the full clause or caves for a lower fee, the Kudus situation has become a symbol of a wider issue: a talented player stalling in a stale system, and a club that might have to sacrifice him for progress elsewhere.

If he goes, let’s at least make sure the money’s used wisely. Because letting go of a player like Kudus without a proper plan? That’s a step backward no matter how you spin it.