Mohammed Kudus transfer on cards in January amid Lopetegui friction at West Ham

West Ham United are increasingly confident about keeping Mohammed Kudus beyond the January transfer window, according to GiveMeSport.

However, a transfer is not entirely ruled out, with the outlet reporting via their website on 24 December that the Irons could consider bids close to £100million amid growing interest from Manchester City and Arsenal.

Friction between him and Julen Lopetegui has raised doubts over his future at the London Stadium, although the hierarchy are keen to retain his services.

He has an £85m release clause in his contract, but that can only be activated in the summer.

Arsenal and Manchester City given Kudus answer by West Ham

With the Hammers increasing their demands, Arsenal and Manchester City are unlikely to push for a move for Kudus in January.

However, it remains to be seen if that will change amid an injury to Bukayo Saka at the Emirates Stadium and the Cityzens' poor run of form.

West Ham, meanwhile, are planning to end the season with the 24-year-old in their ranks, although there is a chance he will not be at the club next season.

It would not be a surprise if Liverpool also entered the race for the Ghana international, especially if they do not reach an agreement with Mohamed Salah over a new contract.

Kudus is perhaps West Ham's most sellable asset. So, they could still choose to sell him in January if they want to make significant additions to their squad for the second half of the season amid Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns [Hammers.News].

In other West Ham news, the Irons are monitoring this Premier League star as they look to add a new striker to their ranks.

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