Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images

Seven Blues for One Hammer: Chelsea’s Insane Swap Offer

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 12:32 PM ET

Chelsea’s summer transfer window is buzzing with ambition. Fresh off securing a UEFA Champions League spot and clinching the UEFA Conference League title, the Blues are chasing West Ham’s dazzling winger Mohammed Kudus. A swap deal involving seven players could slash his $106 million price tag.

The Blues are eager to bolster their attack, particularly targeting a right-footed winger to ignite their left flank. Kudus, a 24-year-old Ghanaian star, fits the bill with his electrifying pace and flair. Chelsea’s interest in him isn’t new; they pursued him in 2023 before he joined West Ham for $48 million per BBC Sport.

West Ham, however, are reluctant to let their star go. With a release clause reportedly set at $106 million for Premier League clubs, active in early July, Chelsea are crafting a creative solution. A players-plus-cash deal could ease the financial burden.

Transfer expert Graeme Bailey revealed Chelsea’s bold strategy to The Chelsea Chronicle. The Blues offered goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, but West Ham declined, uninterested in the pair. Chelsea’s next move? A potential swap involving seven squad players.

"Blue is the color, Kudus is the name, we want the Hammer and Swap-sies is our game!"

Defenders Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Trevoh Chalobah are on the table, alongside Sanchez, Dewsbury-Hall, and young midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka. West Ham previously eyed Chalobah, Disasi, and Badiashile, making them attractive bargaining chips. This deal could also trim Chelsea’s wage bill, freeing up funds for further signings.

Kudus’s appeal is undeniable. His dribbling prowess led the Premier League in 2024-25, though his goal and assist tally dipped, drawing scrutiny. Still, his potential to unlock defenses makes him a prime target for Chelsea’s high-octane system.

West Ham’s stance remains firm. They rejected Chelsea’s initial offer, preferring cash to bolster their transfer kitty under new manager Graham Potter. Saudi clubs, including Al-Nassr, are also circling, adding pressure.

Chelsea’s swap proposal is a gamble, but it’s savvy. Offloading fringe players like Chalobah and Adarabioyo, who West Ham covet for profit, could make the deal enticing. Yet, West Ham’s focus on cash might derail negotiations.

The transfer saga is heating up as Chelsea push for Kudus. Their Champions League return demands star power, and Kudus could be the spark. Will West Ham budge, or will Chelsea’s grand plan fizzle?

Next: Is FIFA’s Club World Cup the Biggest Flop in Soccer History?

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: