Manchester United could well have an edge in the race to sign West Ham star Jarrod Bowen this summer
Manchester United may have to act quickly if they want to complete a summer move for Jarrod Bowen.
The West Ham forward is expected to leave east London following the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship. While the club are believed to value Bowen at around £50million, reports suggest an offer closer to £40m could be enough to strike a deal.
Bowen has been one of the brightest sparks in the Premier League this season, notching 11 goals and 12 assists in all competitions. His form has naturally attracted significant interest, with Chelsea now reportedly considering a swoop for the 29-year-old.
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But United can offer Bowen something the Blues can’t: his preferred squad number.
The England international has worn the No. 20 shirt for most of his career, including the last six seasons at the London Stadium. Conveniently for United, the number became available after Diogo Dalot switched to the No. 2 shirt ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Chelsea, meanwhile, currently have Joao Pedro occupying the No. 20 shirt at Stamford Bridge. Although the Brazilian has been linked with a blockbuster switch to Barcelona this summer, Chelsea are said to be not considering a sale after his impressive debut season in west London.
According to Metro, Chelsea have been monitoring Bowen for some time as they look to add greater experience and versatility to their attacking options. New manager Xabi Alonso is also understood to be a long-time admirer of the West Ham man, having spoke glowingly about him during his time in charge of Bayer Leverkusen.
“He’s one of the top players for sure, not just in terms of goals, but energy as well,” Alonso told TNT Sports in 2024. “He’s a real threat in their transitions in the last third – he has a great foot, so that’s why he’s one of the top players in the English squad.”
That said, Bowen’s strong connection with the West Ham fanbase could make a move across London to Chelsea more difficult to sell than a switch to Old Trafford. United can also offer Champions League football next season after Michael Carrick’s side secured a third-place finish in the Premier League – ending the campaign 19 points ahead of Chelsea.
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For now, though, Bowen is keeping his cards close to his chest. Following West Ham’s relegation, he issued an emotional apology to supporters on social media.
“It’s hard to post something like this when all you’re feeling is embarrassment and pain,” Bowen shared on Instagram. “I could write loads trying to explain where it all went wrong this season, but honestly what you deserve from me is an apology.
“Winning that trophy in Prague was the best night of my career. Sunday was the worst. We just weren’t good enough. Simple as that. And that’s why the season ended the way it did.”
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