BREAKING NEWS: Based on the information provided by Fabrizio Romano, it has been reported that Mohamed Kudus has reached a decision to join Arsenal this summer.

Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus has garnered substantial interest from several Premier League clubs, notably Arsenal, Chelsea, Brighton, and West Ham.

The 23-year-old Ghanaian international started the 2023/24 season with Ajax, but a transfer to the English Premier League now seems imminent.

The Athletic reports that West Ham United is on the verge of securing a deal with Ajax for Kudus. The clubs have agreed on a transfer fee of €41.5 million (£35.4 million) upfront, with an additional €3 million (£2.6 million) in potential add-ons. The agreement also includes a 10 percent sell-on clause.

Kudus is expected to sign a five-year contract with West Ham, signaling the club’s intent to bolster their squad with versatile and skilled players to enhance their Premier League performance.

In parallel, Arsenal is looking to offload several players before the summer transfer window closes on September 1. Nicolas Pepe, who joined Arsenal in 2019 for a then-record fee of £72 million, is among those the club is keen to sell.

Other players on Arsenal’s list include Folarin Balogun, Kieran Tierney, Rob Holding, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Cedric Soares, and Nuno Tavares.

Pepe had attracted interest from Besiktas, who offered him a three-year contract, but he rejected the offer.

This leaves Arsenal in a challenging position as they try to resolve his future. Despite some fans calling for Pepe to be given another chance at the club, his return seems unlikely.

According to RMC journalist Fabrice Hawkins, an unnamed Saudi Arabian club is now preparing a bid for Pepe. Arsenal is in talks over a transfer fee with this club, which could provide financial relief and an opportunity for Pepe to rejuvenate his career.

Additionally, Folarin Balogun has emerged as a surprising potential transfer target for Tottenham Hotspur, sparking debate among fans and analysts.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has commented on this, acknowledging the potential controversy but also the necessity for Balogun to secure regular playing time to develop his career.

Petit argues that if Tottenham can offer Balogun the opportunity to grow into a top striker, Arsenal should not dismiss the move outright, despite the rivalry between the clubs.

This perspective emphasizes a pragmatic approach, focusing on what is best for Balogun’s career and Arsenal’s strategic needs. 

In summary, while the emotional aspect of player transfers to rival clubs is significant, decisions should ultimately prioritize player development and the strategic interests of the club.