West Ham Prepared to Give “Electric” Teenager Chance if Kudus Exits

West Ham United find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 17th in the Premier League table after struggling offensively this season. The team has only managed 37 goals while conceding 55 times so far.

Manager Graham Potter, who took over midway through the campaign, has focused on shoring up the defense to gain crucial points and ensure survival. The club’s safety could potentially be secured this weekend.

Last season under David Moyes, West Ham scored 60 goals but allowed 74. So while the attack has regressed, Potter appears to be improving the team’s defensive record.

Looking ahead to next season, the priority will likely shift back to bolstering the attack and bridging the gap to that 60-goal mark. This is especially important given the talented forwards like Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus currently in the squad.

However, reports suggest Kudus may not remain at the London Stadium much longer. According to The Guardian, West Ham are open to selling the Ghanaian attacker this summer to boost their transfer budget. Saudi club Al-Nassr are rumored to be preparing an £85 million offer for the 24-year-old.

While Kudus has struggled to replicate his form from last season, replacing his production and connection with Bowen would be challenging. Fortunately, West Ham may already have an internal solution in young Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme.

The 19-year-old joined from Palmeiras last summer for £25.5 million but has seen limited action so far, making just 12 appearances. However, analysts have praised Guilherme as an “impressively potent offensive asset” with an “explosive first step.”

Comparing their underlying numbers, Guilherme has shown creativity in his limited minutes, producing shot-creating actions and key passes at a good rate. While Kudus may have a higher athletic ceiling, Guilherme is described as “electric” with game-changing potential.

Giving the Brazilian youngster a proper chance next season to fill Kudus’ role could be a cost-effective solution, allowing West Ham to reinvest potential transfer funds in other areas of need like midfield.

If Kudus does depart this summer, unleashing their “explosive” teenage talent may be West Ham’s smartest path forward as they look to climb back up the Premier League table next season.