Bowen Could Make Premier League Return Despite Loyalty Pledge

West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen could be set for a swift return to the Premier League, as Crystal Palace are reportedly weighing up a £50 million bid.

The forward has, until now, opted to remain with the Hammers despite their relegation to the Championship. Bowen has long proven his top-flight credentials, even earning call-ups to the England national team while at the London Stadium, but had pledged his loyalty to the club.

This summer, the 29-year-old signed a new contract to continue wearing the captain's armband for West Ham. However, the Eagles are prepared to test his resolve with a formal offer. While the Hammers still need to manage their financial situation, and a significant transfer fee would be beneficial, Bowen remains their star player and a fan favourite.

According to The Sun, Palace is ready to explore the possibility of signing Bowen as a replacement for Ismaila Sarr, who is keen on a move to Galatasaray. The Turkish giants are pushing to finalize a £34 million transfer for the player, who scored 21 goals last season and is reportedly pushing for an exit.

New Eagles manager Pierre Sage left Sarr out of the squad for their 2-0 loss to Everton in the opening round of the season. Galatasaray aims to complete the deal within a week, which would force Palace to seek a replacement.

Bowen scored 11 goals for West Ham last season, and the South London club has long admired the Englishman. Palace was among the favourites to sign Bowen back in January 2020 when he was at Hull, before the Hammers ultimately won the race for his signature.

West Ham supporters are already frustrated after their team, tipped for promotion before the season, failed to win either of their first two matches.

On Saturday, Charlton secured a 2-1 victory at the London Stadium. Taty Castellanos missed a penalty in added time that could have salvaged a point for West Ham, leaving fans puzzled as to why Bowen didn't take it.

The winger's legacy at the Hammers is already secured – he scored the winning goal in the final minute when the club lifted the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023, their first European trophy since 1965.

Bowen later stated that he had no desire to leave the club after their relegation, which motivated him to sign a new contract with West Ham.