Chelsea have had another difficult season in the Premier League and in European competition, but there is still plenty to look forward to.
The Blues confirmed this week that ex-Real Madrid boss and Bundesliga title winner Xabi Alonso will join the club this summer on a four-year contract.
While missing out on Champions League football will be sore for the supporters, there will be an elevated level of hope that Alonso can be the key to unlocking the potential and much-needed success in West London.
Now that the managerial appointment is out of the way, Chelsea must focus on their recruitment strategy and how they should approach the market to ensure they can improve next season.
They are already being linked with several players ahead of the summer transfer window, with a real need to strengthen their attacking options.
According to The Guardian, Chelsea are one of the Premier League clubs interested in signing Jarrod Bowen.
The publication claims that the Blues are joining the race alongside Liverpool and Manchester United, with all three clubs monitoring his situation in East London.
It is understood that Chelsea are keen to add more experience to the squad after focusing heavily on younger talent in recent years, and believe that Bowen could provide excellent cover across the front three.
Will Chelsea sign Jarrod Bowen?
There is no doubt that Bowen possesses the Premier League experience and consistency in front of goal to provide Alonso with a valuable option in the forward line.
The 29-year-old winger – once hailed as “talismanic” by ex-Chelsea star and pundit Joe Cole – has scored 84 goals and registered 62 assists for West Ham, averaging a goal contribution every 155 minutes played.
Bowen offers versatility in attack, with experience playing both on the right wing and as a striker, making him an ideal profile for Chelsea to pursue.
While his age may be a sticking point for the hierarchy, if the Hammers are relegated this weekend they could consider selling him for a significantly lower fee, which would make the deal even more attractive for the Blues.
Although there is strong competition from Liverpool and Manchester United, a move to Chelsea could appeal to Bowen as it would allow him to remain in London while becoming part of a project that may lead to further silverware.
Chelsea are entering a crucial summer both on and off the pitch, and the arrival of Xabi Alonso could mark the beginning of a completely new era at Stamford Bridge.
Signing a proven Premier League performer like Jarrod Bowen would not only add quality and experience to the squad, but also provide the leadership and consistency that Chelsea have lacked in key moments this season.
If the Blues are serious about closing the gap on their rivals and returning to Europe’s elite, moves like this could be exactly what is needed.
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