West Ham United have confirmed that Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus asked not to take part in full pre-season training as transfer talks intensify, with Tottenham and Chelsea vying for his signature.

Kudus was present at Rush Green on the first day of pre-season, but only participated in gym work and light jogging.

His absence from on-field training raised questions, prompting the club to clarify the situation.

A senior spokesman told Hammers News that it was Kudus himself who made the decision: "I think he doesn't want to train at the moment.