West Ham director Daniel Kretinsky has made clear the club's resolve to hold on to their key players, amid reports linking Newcastle United with a move for Jarrod Bowen.
West Ham's Relegation and Player Speculation
West Ham's relegation from the Premier League has meant speculation around their big-name players, particularly Bowen and midfielder Matheus Fernandes. Both players have been heavily linked with departures from the Hammers this summer following West Ham's relegation to the Championship, and Newcastle are one of many teams keeping tabs on Bowen's situation in particular.
The Magpies are in the market for possibly two new forwards this season - someone to replace Anthony Gordon and then potentially a right-winger with Jacob Murphy's future at the club uncertain. Eddie Howe is a fan of Bowen and he would be seen as a 'marquee' summer signing, adding quality and experience, but whether PIF and Ross Wilson are as keen on a 29-year-old remains to be seen with the club looking at younger, cheaper options on the continent, including Victor Munoz.
Kretinsky's Stance on Player Sales
Nonetheless, West Ham co-owner Daniel Kretinsky insists the crisis-hit club - rocked by relegation and then the revelations about David Sullivan - have no intention of allowing their top talent to depart this summer.
"We have a very credible strategy," Kretinsky said in an interview with The Times. "We don't need to sell the players for financial reasons. We are doing this to make sure we are promoted back to the Premier League immediately. That is our only goal."
"Key players are waiting for us. They want to see there is a real chance of keeping the squad together. What matters is funding, strategy and consistency. We have spoken to all of them. They need to see that our project is real and serious. Promotion is our only goal."
Bowen's Future and Other Transfer Links
Bowen's future at West Ham has been thrown into doubt following the club's drop from the top flight, with Newcastle, Man United and Liverpool touted as possible destinations for the 29-year-old, who remains under contract at the London Stadium until 2030. He missed out on the World Cup this summer but is understood to be open to staying at West Ham and helping them get promoted.
Fernandes' future could be tied in with Sandro Tonali's. The duo are among a shortlist of Premier League midfielders being monitored by the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Man City who are all looking to bolster their midfield options ahead of the upcoming season. Reports have suggested that West Ham value Fernandes at approximately £80m and Man United are believed to see him as better value for money than Tonali, who has had a £100m price tag slapped on his head by Newcastle.
