Sullivan sets Mohamadou Kante price tag with Nuno impressed by West Ham youngster

Nuno Espirito Santo has been left blown away by a West Ham youngster behind-the-scenes as chairman David Sullivan names his summer price tag, according to reports.

West Ham are facing a pivotal summer following their relegation from the Premier League, with significant changes expected both on and off the pitch as the club prepares for life in the Championship.

A number of senior players have been linked with moves away from the London Stadium in recent weeks.

Club captain Jarrod Bowen continues to attract interest after remaining one of West Ham’s standout performers despite the team’s difficult campaign.

Crysencio Summerville has also been regularly mentioned in transfer speculation, while star midfielder Mateus Fernandes is another player being monitored by clubs in England and abroad after impressing during his first season in east London.

Reports throughout the past month have suggested West Ham may need to raise around £100 million through player sales as they look to reshape the squad and address financial concerns following relegation.

While the exact figure has varied between reports, there is a widespread expectation that departures will form a major part of the club’s summer business.

That backdrop has naturally increased attention on some of West Ham’s most valuable assets.

However, one player generating growing interest is not an established first-team star, but one of the club’s most highly-rated young prospects.

West Ham set Mohamadou Kante price tag as French clubs circle

According to The Athletic, West Ham have placed a valuation of between £15 million and £20 million on midfielder Mohamadou Kante as interest in the youngster continues to grow.

The report states that the club are braced for offers this summer but are not actively looking to sell the 20-year-old, who remains highly regarded internally.

Kante joined West Ham from Paris FC in 2024 before returning to the French club on loan for the 2024/25 campaign. He later signed a new long-term contract with the Hammers in October 2025, underlining the club’s belief in his long-term potential.

The Athletic‘s report suggests Kante has made a particularly strong impression behind the scenes.

Nuno is said to be a major admirer of the midfielder, with the West Ham boss impressed by both his development and performances away from the spotlight.

That assessment helps explain why the club have attached such a substantial valuation to a player who is still at an early stage of his senior career.

Those who have followed Kante’s progress closely are not surprised.

The French midfielder has long been viewed as one of the brightest talents in West Ham’s system. Standing out for his physical presence, technical ability and composure in possession, he has been tipped by many observers as a player capable of becoming a central figure in the club’s future midfield.

That potential is now attracting attention from elsewhere.

The £15-20 million figure reflects both his potential and the club’s determination not to lose a player they believe could play an important role under Nuno.

From West Ham’s perspective, the situation is delicate.

The club may need to generate funds through player sales this summer, but there is also a desire to retain key young talent capable of helping the team challenge for an immediate return to the Premier League.

Kante falls firmly into that category.