David Ornstein has moved to clarify the growing speculation surrounding Mohammed Kudus and a possible move to Tottenham, insisting the West Ham star is simply one of several names Spurs are considering.

Speaking on The Athletic FC Podcast, the reliable reporter said: “They have a reported interest in him. We don’t know of it being more than him being one of the options they’re considering. We’ve reported that they enquired.”

This directly tempers the growing narrative suggesting a deal is close, with Ornstein making clear that while Spurs have asked about Kudus, there’s currently nothing advanced or nailed on.

Tottenham’s Opening Bid Already Rejected

Despite that clarification, it’s still true Tottenham have made a move. According to multiple reports, Spurs submitted a £50 million bid for the Ghana international, which included £5 million in add-ons. West Ham rejected the offer flat out.

The Hammers have zero plans to let Kudus leave on the cheap. He only arrived from Ajax last summer for a reported £40 million fee and signed a five-year deal with an option for a sixth.

Although rumours have swirled around an £65 million release clause, West Ham are playing things close to the chest and standing firm on their valuation.

Chelsea and Newcastle Keeping Tabs

With Tottenham’s pursuit cooling off, interest from other clubs appears to be heating up. Former Spurs scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that Chelsea are now watching Kudus closely and could get involved if there’s movement.

Newcastle United are also among those tracking the situation. Both clubs are thought to rate Kudus highly and could move if the Hammers show any openness to negotiating. However, with Newcastle chasing Elanga, it looks less likely he’ll be joining the magpies.

Financial Pressure Looming?

Ex-Tottenham keeper Paul Robinson thinks financial regulations might play a part eventually. Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he pointed out that FFP considerations could influence West Ham’s stance if a serious bid is tabled.

Still, Robinson doesn’t see Tottenham being able to meet the full valuation. “The thing that would potentially cuppa this deal would be West Ham pricing them out,” he said.

Tottenham Eyeing Other Options

With no deal close for Kudus, Spurs are widening their net. Reports suggest that OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand is one of the options they’re looking at instead.

Guessand, also attracting attention from West Ham, Brighton, and Wolves, is valued highly following Nice’s qualification for the Champions League. That could make him just as tricky to sign.

For now, Kudus remains a West Ham player. And unless someone puts serious money on the table, that’s not changing any time soon.