Jarrod Bowen can cement West Ham icon status as Chelsea rumours grow

Jarrod Bowen remains linked with an exit from West Ham United this summer.

Relegation comes with several consequences, but perhaps none quite as severe as the exits that are expected to follow.

Having played in the Premier League for several years, the majority of those at the London Stadium will be eying a return to the top flight.

Bowen is one of those who keep getting linked with moves away from West Ham, and given his goal record over the last few seasons, it is not a surprise.

However, Bowen can cement his place as one of West Ham's all-time greats with one decision this summer.

West Ham may have Jarrod Bowen hope

Chelsea are keen on a deal for Bowen, according to reports, and given Xabi Alonso's previous comments on the Englishman, it is no surprise.

Back in 2024. Alonso said: “We know the physicality of West Ham, not just good players. Bowen, [Mohamed] Kudus, top, top players. But also, they are able to play without the physicality.”

The Blues will be expected to make a move in the coming weeks, but there is every chance that Bowen would turn down the chance to represent another London club, especially one in the state that Chelsea are in currently.

At 29 years old, he's unlikely to want to move to a club without European football, which, after their final day defeat to Sunderland, is exactly what Chelsea will face next season.

How Bowen can increase his West Ham popularity

Had it not been for Bowen, the Irons would have been relegated a long, long time ago.

So it's fair to say that he is almost exempt from the blame for last season's failure.

However, throughout his time at the club, he has formed an emotional connection with supporters, which may play a part in his decision.

As unlikely as it may seem right now, Bowen's future may still be with West Ham, and if he were to stay and get them out of the Championship, very few players would be able to rival his icon status.