Tottenham Hotspur are exploring a sensational move for Mohammed Kudus, as they look to end a long-standing reluctance to deal directly with rivals West Ham United — a transfer route that has remained closed for over a decade.

The 24-year-old Ghanaian international, who joined the Hammers from Ajax for nearly £40 million, has emerged as a leading target for Spurs, who are eager to strengthen their attacking ranks ahead of the 2025/26 campaign under new manager Thomas Frank.

While Tottenham had also been monitoring Bryan Mbeumo, Antoine Semenyo, and Eberechi Eze, Kudus is now considered their top priority. Club insiders suggest Spurs are hopeful of securing a deal below his £85 million release clause, which reportedly expires within the first 10 days of July.

West Ham are said to be open to selling Kudus, as head coach Graham Potter looks to reshape his squad this summer. A sale would provide significant funds for a rebuild, and Kudus himself is believed to be receptive to the idea of switching allegiances within London.

If the deal goes through, Kudus would become the first player to make a direct move from West Ham to Tottenham since Scott Parker in 2011 — a move that was once considered unthinkable due to the rivalry between the clubs. Notably, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy famously blocked Emmanuel Adebayor’s proposed move to West Ham in 2015, underlining the tension that has long influenced transfer dealings between the sides.

Chelsea had previously shown interest in Kudus, but have since shifted focus to other targets, including Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro, leaving the door open for Spurs to push ahead.

Kudus’ debut season in the Premier League saw him impress with 14 goals across all competitions, though his output dipped in the most recent campaign as West Ham struggled for form, with the midfielder finding the net just five times.

His versatility — capable of operating in any position behind the striker — makes him a particularly attractive option for Thomas Frank, who is reshaping Spurs' attacking approach.

While Tottenham have yet to make a formal bid, a deal could be contingent on player sales to balance the books, though additional investment from majority owners Enic or new investors remains a possibility.

Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to loom over the future of Cristian Romero, following his recent criticism of the club’s direction. Reports linking him to Atletico Madrid have been denied by Spurs sources, but discussions about his role under the new regime are expected when he returns for pre-season in mid-July.

Kudus' potential switch to Tottenham would mark a dramatic moment in the capital’s football landscape — and a risky one for the player, who could face backlash from West Ham fans if he crosses the divide.