Chelsea are hoping that West Ham will sell their captain Jarrod Bowen for £40m this summer, according to reports.
The Independent claim that the Blues and other “competing clubs” are looking to exploit the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship by making a move for the 29-year-old.
It is believed that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side would accept a fee in the region of £50m for Bowen.
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With the club needing to raise between £100m and £150m from player sales over the next few months, it does seem as if the club’s talisman could be sacrificed if a large enough bid is tabled.
Why are Chelsea interested in the West Ham star?
Considering that West Ham’s London rivals have not generally signed players in their late 20s since the takeover of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, it is a surprise to see that they are considering a move for Bowen.
However, the appointment of Xabi Alonso as manager is said to have led to a change in transfer policy, whereby the Blues are now pursuing more experienced players with leadership ability.
Would Bowen move to Stamford Bridge?
From the club’s standpoint, selling the captain would not be their first choice. If they can raise enough from the sales of Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville, it would reduce the need to offload Bowen before the summer transfer window closes.
The winger does have other suitors, with reports linking him with Newcastle and Liverpool, but he is said to be happy in London.
Of course, any move to a rival would be controversial, and considering the loyalty Bowen has shown to the Irons over the years, you wouldn’t think that he’d be interested in a switch to Stamford Bridge.
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