Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has responded to growing speculation linking West Ham star Mohammed Kudus with a potential move to Stamford Bridge. Speaking after Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup semi-final, Maresca made it clear that Kudus is currently not on Chelsea’s books.

“Mohammed is a West Ham player. And he is not our player, so I cannot say anything,” Maresca said. “The only thing I can say, I know Mohammed, I know Kudus since he was in Ajax. But he is a West Ham player.”

Maresca Kept It Respectful Amid Chelsea-Kudus Rumours

While several clubs are keeping tabs on Kudus, Maresca’s comments stood out for their respectful tone. There was no hint of a public pursuit, despite Chelsea being heavily linked with the Ghana international.

That approach contrasts with Tottenham’s recent handling of their own reported interest. According to Fabrizio Romano, Spurs had opened initial talks, which triggered frustration from someone close to Hammers chairman David Sullivan.

The source denied any formal approach and accused Spurs of trying to rattle cages through the media and agents rather than respecting proper channels.

Could Financial Pressure Force West Ham’s Hand?

Kudus signed for West Ham from Ajax just this past summer and has quickly become a key piece in the squad. However, with the Hammers looking to stay on the right side of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), several high-value players, including Kudus, are being mentioned as potential sales.

Hammers News revealed earlier this month that Chelsea and West Ham have already held early talks over a possible deal. Sources now say Chelsea are seriously considering a move, though Maresca’s comments suggest no advanced negotiations have taken place just yet.

Fans Would Rather See Kudus in Blue Than White

While no official bid has been made, Chelsea’s firming interest seems to put them ahead of Spurs in the race—something West Ham fans aren’t taking lightly. Many supporters have taken to social media to voice their belief that, if Kudus does leave, seeing him at Chelsea would be far more acceptable than watching him join bitter rivals Tottenham.

There’s existing history with Chelsea too. Kudus had a fiery on-pitch exchange with Blues midfielder Cole Palmer last season, but Palmer later praised Kudus in post-match comments. That’s led some to believe the duo could click if reunited.

For now, though, Kudus remains very much a West Ham player—and Maresca’s respectful, clear stance keeps the spotlight firmly on what happens next.