Brighton and Hove Albion are closing in on a deal to sign Ajax star Mohammed Kudus.
According to The Athletic, Brighton are on the verge of finalising a £34.5 million deal to secure the services of Mohammed Kudus.
If the move goes through for that price, then it would smash the Seagull’s current club-record deal, which was set earlier this summer with the acquisition of Joao Pedro from Watford.
Roberto De Zerbi has been the driving force behind this pursuit of Kudus, with the Italian coach identifying the player as a key target. The Amex Stadium faithful will have De Zerbi to thank when the Ghanaian is seen strutting his stuff for the south coast club.
It is easy to understand why De Zerbi would hold Kudus in such high regard. The signing would also represent a significant statement of intent and display of ambition ahead of the club’s Europa League campaign.
Why De Zerbi is so excited about Kudus
The 23-year-old has been an increasingly influential figure for Ajax over the course of the last three seasons. He enjoyed his most prolific campaign with the Amsterdam giants last time out. Kudus scored 18 goals and racked up 7 assists in all competitions.
Former Ajax boss Erik Ten Hag previously referred to Kudus as having “incredible potential.” The player is beginning to live up to that verdict.
Kudus’ versatility will be a huge boost for De Zerbi. The 24-cap Ghana international can comfortably play on either flank, and can also operate up front or in a central attacking midfield role. He is physically imposing, brilliantly creative, and a reliable finisher.
De Zerbi will want his side to maintain their progress from last season and kick on again. Kudus’ arrival will raise the level at Brighton and help the club keep pushing for success in both the Premier League and Europa League.