Liverpool, Newcastle United and Everton have all identified West Ham forward Jarrod Bowen as a prime summer transfer target, according to reports in the Daily Mail. The interest persists even if the Hammers manage to avoid relegation from the Premier League, underscoring the high regard for the 29-year-old across the division.
Bowen has been a standout performer for West Ham this season, contributing 12 goals and 7 assists in the league despite the team's struggles near the bottom of the table. His ability to play across the front line, combined with his work rate and finishing, makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking attacking reinforcements. For Liverpool, Bowen could provide depth behind Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz, while Newcastle view him as a versatile option to bolster their Champions League push. Everton, meanwhile, see the England international as a statement signing to strengthen their squad under new ownership.
West Ham are bracing for inevitable interest in their star asset, especially given the club's precarious financial position and potential need to raise funds if they drop to the Championship. However, even survival may not guarantee Bowen's stay, as the player is reportedly keen to test himself at a higher level. The Daily Mail reports that the trio of suitors are preparing bids, with valuations expected to exceed £50 million.
In other transfer news, Manchester United are considering a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who could be available for around £40 million, according to the Manchester Evening News. The Brazilian has impressed in Serie A with his box-to-box displays, and United are expected to be busy in the window, targeting at least five signings – including three central midfielders, a left-back and a striker, as reported by The Sun.
Liverpool are also monitoring Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, valued at £43 million (€50 million) by the French club, per L'Equipe. The 23-year-old France international has been a revelation in Ligue 1, and his arrival would add creativity and youthful energy to Liverpool's attack.
Chelsea's managerial search continues to dominate headlines, with multiple reports linking Xabi Alonso to the Stamford Bridge hot seat. The Athletic claims Chelsea are exploring a deal to appoint the Bayer Leverkusen boss, while The i adds that the club is willing to cede more power to the manager over recruitment. Alonso, who led Leverkusen to a historic unbeaten domestic double, is seen as a forward-thinking choice. Meanwhile, The Sun reports that Chelsea have stepped up talks with Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, and The Telegraph mentions Oliver Glasner and Filipe Luís as other candidates on their radar.
Elsewhere, the Premier League is set to reject widening the scope of VAR next season, according to The Guardian, following discussions with refereeing body PGMO. Real Madrid will likely need to sell players before making new signings, with Dani Ceballos among those potentially offloaded, per The Athletic. In a developing story, Middlesbrough are pushing for severe sanctions against Southampton over alleged spying, which could include expulsion from the Championship play-offs, as reported by The Times and Daily Mail.
As the transfer window approaches, the Bowen saga is one to watch. With three Premier League clubs circling, West Ham face a crucial decision: cash in on their star or risk losing him for less if relegated. For the suitors, landing a proven Premier League goalscorer could be the difference in their respective ambitions.
Based on reporting from Sky Sports.