Manchester City is reportedly considering a substantial bid for West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus in the January transfer window. Pep Guardiola’s side is in search of a new attacking midfielder to potentially replace Kevin de Bruyne, who is out of contract next summer.

While Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz is Manchester City’s primary target, he is close to signing a contract extension with the German club. This has prompted City to shift their focus to Kudus, who can play as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, potentially filling in for an out-of-form Jack Grealish.

Reports suggest that Manchester City is willing to spend around €80 million (£66.3 million / $83.3 million) on Kudus, whom they see as having “incredible potential.” The 24-year-old joined West Ham from Ajax for £38 million in the summer of 2023 and has since made 59 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists.

West Ham reportedly values Kudus at around £100 million, although he has an £85 million release clause that will activate next summer, which could influence their negotiating position.

Despite the interest in Kudus, sources indicate that Manchester City’s priority for January is to secure a defensive midfielder. The club is currently experiencing a challenging run of form, sitting seventh in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.

Although City has been linked with Kudus in the past and admires the Ghanaian international, a deal in January appears unlikely as West Ham is not keen on losing him, especially with his contract running until 2028. However, the situation may change next summer when his release clause becomes active. Whether any clubs will be willing to meet that clause remains to be seen.