'Deal collapsed' - Brighton set to miss out on landmark signing opening the door to Chelsea move

The Seagulls had reportedly agreed a fee for the Ghanaian international earlier this week and were given a 48-hour window to organise a contract for his arrival at the Amex Stadium.

However, an agreement could not be reached and said deadline has now passed, leaving many to believe the move is now off.

Reports suggest that the collapse of this deal does not mean Kudus will remain at Ajax, but does suggest his price tag is likely to increase for any other clubs looking to sign the 22-year-old.

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Chelsea are now favourites to sign Kudus, having been reportedly monitoring the players situation for much of the summer.

Kudus joined Ajax from Danish side Nordsjælland in 2020 and has gone on to make 84 appearances for the famous Dutch club, scoring 23 goals.

He predominately operates from an attacking position, but can also play as a centre-forward and off the right-hand side.

It is unclear whether Brighton will pursue another target, having been linked with Manchester City’s Cole Palmer for a potential loan move, but no official offer has yet been made.