Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has poured cold water on growing speculation linking Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus with a summer move to Stamford Bridge, insisting the player remains under contract with West Ham United.

Kudus, 24, has emerged as a hot commodity in the current transfer window following an impressive debut season with the Hammers, during which he netted 19 goals in 80 appearances across all competitions.

His performances have reportedly drawn interest from Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and other European sides.

However, speaking after Chelsea's 2-1 victory over Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals, Maresca refused to be drawn into the transfer rumours.
“He’s a West Ham player, so I can’t say much. The only thing I can say is that I’ve known Kudus since his time at Ajax,” Maresca said.

While the Italian tactician didn’t confirm Chelsea's pursuit, his comments hinted at an admiration for Kudus’ talent and versatility, which has seen him thrive in multiple attacking roles since his move from Ajax to West Ham in 2023 for a reported £38 million.

West Ham are said to be holding out for a fee of at least £60 million for the Ghana international, who still has several years left on his contract. Kudus' growing stock, coupled with his proven output in the Premier League, makes him one of the most sought-after names this summer.

For now, Chelsea’s interest remains unconfirmed, but Maresca’s restrained praise may suggest that the Blues are keeping a close watch on the situation.