By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen is 50-50 to remain at the club in the Championship, news exclusively revealed to Claret & Hugh earlier today.
Over the last couple of days, the new Hammers regime has notified players and agents of their intention to retain as many key squad members as possible and reiterated their ambition to return to the Premier League at the first attempt.
Clearly, a season in the Championship will require new signings, but it is a widely held belief that West Ham’s best route back to the top flight is to keep hold of as much top talent as possible.
Bowen clearly fits into that category.
The Championship’s Highest Earner?
Jarrod is the only player in the squad who does not have a 50% wage reduction in the event of relegation.
He is believed to be on £140,000 per week before bonuses, which would not only make him the highest-paid player in the Championship, but probably the highest-paid player in the history of the second tier.
Therefore, it says much for the ambition—and wallet—of Daniel Kretinsky that he is willing to guarantee such a huge sum and attempt to persuade Bowen to stay.
Agent Gives Hope
Having spoken to an agent tasked with moving on some of the club’s ‘dead wood’, it is clear there is hope that Bowen will remain.
The source told Claret & Hugh:
“I’d say Bowen is 50-50. He has a huge contract and would be a significant package for any buying club to improve his deal.”
In other words, whilst clubs may admire Bowen, actually putting together a package that makes sense is another matter entirely.
Growing Confidence
Personally, the longer this goes on and the more I hear, the more confident I become that West Ham can keep hold of our captain.
And make no mistake about it, he’d be absolutely key to the club bouncing straight back to the Premier League.
Considering Bowen finished with the second-highest assist tally in the top flight last season, I’m convinced he’d absolutely blitz the Championship.
Whilst 50-50 may not sound particularly encouraging, it’s worth remembering that only three weeks ago many were suggesting West Ham wouldn’t be able to hang on to any of their better players.
I don’t think that’s the case anymore.
Dani will be on Strictly, not likely to get in 🏴 team having been snubbed for Madeuke, won’t take a hit on wages, has a young family and obviously he is still contracted to the club.
I reckon he’s staying and will earn legend status by getting us back to the Premiership ⚒️
Why only 50/50? If he has 4 years remaining on his contract and we are under no financial pressure to sell, then he is staying. He is the least likely player in the squad to force a move or down tools.
I agree wirh Rob and John. What’s changed?
I thought Bowen had alraedy said he would probably stay?