It would appear a no-brainer for Jarrod Bowen to leave relegated West Ham United for Chelsea. However, a move to the Stamford Bridge side would be a poisoned chalice.
The Independent has reported that "Chelsea are weighing up a move for Jarrod Bowen, with West Ham United under pressure to sell their star after relegation."
A sale of Bowen, who is contracted to West Ham until 2030, could raise somewhere in the region of £40 million to £50 million. He is the captain of the Hammers and their talisman.
Bowen scored the winning goal for West Ham in the Europa Conference League and is married to the daughter of one of the club's most famous fans. He is the husband of Danny Dyer's daughter. The EastEnders star played at the London Stadium yesterday in the charity match, Soccer Aid, as England beat the World XI 3-2.
It would not be a popular move for Bowen to join London rivals, Chelsea. The transfer may also not entirely make sense on a footballing level.
Bowen was not included in England's roster for the World Cup. Therefore, he will need to join a Premier League side if he is to force his way back into the fold with Thomas Tuchel.
It would be a mistake for Jarrod Bowen to join Chelsea
At Chelsea, however, they already have Estevao and Pedro Neto as options on the right wing. As Bowen is 29, he is the more experienced option, but would not be a long-term option for the Blues.
Estevao is only 19, whilst Neto is 26, and Bowen could end up lacking game time at Chelsea. This could lead to Bowen becoming a journeyman and having to move again to ensure regular minutes. The Blues also do not have any form of European soccer, but the chance to play under Xabi Alonso could be tempting for Bowen.
Bowen could establish himself as one of the club's most loyal servants if he is to stay with them and help them back to the Premier League.
There are other clubs interested in Bowen, including Manchester United and Everton. Bowen could struggle for game time at the Red Devils as they have Brian Mbeumo and Amad Diallo as options on the right wing. Joining Michael Carrick's side would also allow Bowen to play in the Champions League.
A reunion with David Moyes at Everton could also be on the cards. He would likely get more game time at the Toffees, as he would be competing with Iliman Ndiaye for a starting spot. Everton also has Tyler Dibling, but his move from Southampton has not worked out so far.
Bowen has also been linked with Liverpool and Newcastle United in the past. Both need a new winger with Mohamed Salah leaving Liverpool, and Anthony Gordon departing the Magpies for Barcelona. It would be sad for Hammers fans to see Bowen go, but there are clubs that they would prefer to see him join than others. There are also teams that Bowen would be a better fit for than others.
