West Ham could face a significant battle to keep hold of key players this summer, regardless of the club’s league status, with Chelsea reportedly monitoring developments at the London Stadium.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, the Blues are ready to take advantage of any uncertainty surrounding the Hammers, particularly if they’re relegated. The report claims three West Ham players have already been identified as potential targets ahead of the summer transfer window.
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Jarrod Bowen is understood to be at the top of that list, with Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes also attracting attention.
Bowen has been one of West Ham’s standout performers once again this season. The skipper has registered 10 goals and nine assists in all competitions, underlining his importance to the side both as a consistent attacking outlet and as club captain.
One more goal contribution this season for the England international will make it five consecutive seasons with 20+ goal contributions, so it’s no surprise he is the subject of transfer speculation ahead of the summer.
Chelsea are said to be keeping a close watch on his situation, but will be relying heavily on the Hammers being relegated. Bowen has four years left on his contract and, given his love for the club, it would take a lot of convincing to prise him away from London Stadium if the club is still in the Premier League.
But if the Hammers fail to remain in the top-flight, the club will be forced to cash in on their most valuable assets, with Bowen top of that list.
Fernandes and Summerville also on Chelsea’s radar
Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville
Chelsea targets Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville.
Summerville is another player believed to be on Chelsea’s radar. The winger has shown flashes of quality but has become an increasingly influential figure at London Stadium in recent months. His run of scoring in five consecutive games earlier in the year helped spark West Ham’s revival in the second half of the season.
Fernandes completes the trio reportedly being tracked by the Blues. The midfielder has contributed seven goal contributions so far this season, adding energy and attacking threat from deeper areas of midfield.
Chelsea’s interest comes at a time when West Ham’s future in the top flight remains uncertain. While recent results have helped ease immediate pressure, the club is still not guaranteed safety, leaving the door open for potential movement in the summer.
All three players will be so crucial to West Ham if they stay up and the fact that interest in them is already circulating, it’s easy to see why relegation could prove to be a disastrous outcome for the Hammers this season.