The Xabi Alonso quote West Ham fans won't want to hear as Jarrod Bowen Chelsea links grow

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has already explained why he rates West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen highly.

Alonso recently agreed to join Chelsea months following his sacking from Real Madrid after just six months in charge.

The former Bayer Leverkusen boss remains one of the most exciting coaches in the world and will only strengthen the Premier League.

However, Alonso’s arrival could spell bad news for West Ham, as Chelsea are interested in signing Bowen this summer.

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Jarrod Bowen already had Xabi Alonso’s attention before Chelsea transfer rumours

Chelsea finished 10th this season, missing out on all three European competitions, so they may not seem an attractive club to join.

However, managers of Alonso’s profile are often able to convince top players to be part of their long-term projects.

The former Real Madrid and Liverpool midfielder is also expected to large say in Chelsea’s transfer business this summer.

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“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.”

Bowen would undoubtedly be an upgrade on Chelsea wingers Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens and Pedro Neto.

The Englishman may also be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge because it would allow his family to stay in London.

West Ham will be desperate for Bowen to stay for the 2026/27 Championship campaign, but perhaps that is now unlikely.

If Alonso really is a big fan of Bowen’s, he could potentially be the first marquee signing of his Chelsea tenure.