The journalist claims that the Gunners made inquiries all the way back in June before focusing on other targets, but he feels that there is a chance that Mikel Arteta’s side may revive their interest in the coming days:
“Let’s see what happens also with Arsenal. Because Arsenal in June called for Kudus then they invested big money on Kai Havertz and all the other players they signed this summer including [Jurrien] Timber and Declan Rice. So that’s why with Arsenal nothing was going to continue but never say never. That’s why Ajax decided to wait and not accept West Ham’s proposals.”
As Romano mentions, West Ham have already made a formal bid for Kudus but it is believed to be below Ajax’s £44m asking price, which has led to the Dutch club stalling on the offer and waiting to see if Arsenal or another team will step in.
Competition for Kudus could complicate matters
In addition to West Ham, Brighton tried to sign the player earlier this month, while Chelsea have also made formal enquiries this summer.
If more clubs do enter the battle for Kudus’s signature, it could allow Ajax to start a bidding war. Considering Arsenal are not exactly overflowing with cash at the moment, after shelling out over £200m on signings in recent months, getting an agreement in place to sign the Ghanaian may prove to be very difficult.
Arsenal have other transfer priorities
While there is clearly interest in recruiting Kudus, the Gunners are likely to be focused on reinforcing other areas of the pitch.
The long-term injury sustained by Jurrien Timber may lead to the club focusing on signing another fullback, rather than a forward, ahead of deadline day.
