Newcastle now eyeing move for ‘incredible’ £75m Right winger as Mbeumo Alternative

The St James’ Park hierarchy appears determined to solve their long-standing right-wing conundrum this summer, with West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus emerging as a serious alternative should their pursuit of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo falter.

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, the Ghanaian international has garnered significant admiration within Newcastle’s recruitment team, with the Magpies prepared to test West Ham’s resolve with a substantial offer in the coming months.

Newcastle’s qualification for the Champions League has transformed their transfer market capabilities, providing both the financial muscle and sporting appeal to attract talents of Kudus’ caliber.

While Mbeumo remains the primary target for the right-sided attacking role, Football Insider reports indicate Newcastle have identified Kudus as an equally compelling option, particularly given West Ham’s potential willingness to negotiate below his £75 million release clause after a disappointing season at the London Stadium.

(Statistics courtesy of WhoScored, correct as of 01-06-25)

Kudus presents an intriguing proposition for Eddie Howe’s system. Despite West Ham’s collective struggles during a turbulent campaign that saw Julen Lopetegui replaced by Graham Potter, the 24-year-old maintained respectable individual numbers.

His explosive dribbling (2.9 successful dribbles per game – 1st in West Ham’s squad) and willingness to shoot (2.3 shots per game – 2nd) suggest untapped potential that could flourish in Newcastle’s more progressive setup.

The Ghanaian’s versatility to operate across the front line or as an attacking midfielder adds valuable tactical flexibility for European campaigns.

O’Rourke’s analysis reveals Newcastle’s strategic positioning in this potential deal: “Kudus is on their list and has admirers within the Newcastle hierarchy… Due to West Ham’s situation, his suitors feel they can get him for a cheaper fee.”

This assessment aligns with earlier reports suggesting West Ham may accept around £65 million – a significant reduction from their previous £90 million valuation – as they contemplate squad restructuring after narrowly avoiding relegation.

The contrast between Kudus’ debut season (14 goals, 9 assists in 2023/24) and this term’s more modest output (12 goals in 42 appearances) creates an interesting negotiation dynamic.

Newcastle’s recruitment team evidently believes they can unlock the version of Kudus that earned Gary Neville’s “incredible” praise last year, rather than the occasionally frustrated figure in West Ham’s dysfunctional attack.

Financially, the proposed deal makes increasing sense for Newcastle. While substantial, the £65 million outlay would represent better value than triggering his full release clause, leaving room in the budget for other priority positions.

Kudus’ age profile (24) and resale potential further enhance the deal’s appeal for a club that must remain mindful of Financial Fair Play regulations despite their Champions League windfall.

From the player’s perspective, the opportunity to showcase his talents on Europe’s biggest stage under Howe’s progressive management could prove irresistible.

O’Rourke notes Kudus “still feels he has a lot to offer on the European scene” – a telling remark that suggests dissatisfaction with West Ham’s current trajectory and openness to a new challenge.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle formalize their interest with concrete bids. Much depends on Mbeumo’s situation – should the Brentford forward opt for Manchester United or another suitor, Kudus would immediately ascend to primary target status.

Either way, Newcastle’s proactive approach to solving their right-wing issues demonstrates a welcome clarity of vision as they prepare for their second Champions League campaign in three seasons.

For Kudus, a move to Tyneside could represent the perfect platform to rediscover his electrifying best form.

His direct running, technical quality and eye for goal would offer Newcastle something different from Jacob Murphy’s industry, providing genuine competition that elevates the entire attacking unit.

In a summer where smart recruitment could make the difference between Champions League participants and genuine contenders, Kudus represents precisely the type of calculated gamble that could pay substantial dividends for the Magpies’ ambitious project.