What Jarrod Bowen has said about ‘inventive’ Thomas Frank as Spurs linked with £53m West Ham bid
Tottenham Hotspur could be preparing an ambitious January swoop for West Ham United’s talisman Jarrod Bowen, as the north London club looks to strengthen its attacking options amid concerns over their current forward line.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Spurs are weighing up a €60 million (around £53 million) offer for the 27-year-old winger — a move that would undoubtedly test West Ham’s resolve to keep hold of their most influential player.
Tottenham’s search for goals
Tottenham boss Thomas Frank is believed to be growing frustrated with his side’s recent lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Star striker Dominic Solanke continues to struggle with recurring injury issues, while Richarlison, who began the season brightly, has seen his goals dry up in recent weeks.
The club’s struggles were evident in their 2-0 Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle United earlier this week, as well as their 3-0 Premier League victory over Everton, in which all three goals came from a defender and a midfielder rather than a recognised attacker.
Although Spurs currently have Randal Kolo Muani on loan, his impact has been limited, leaving the club desperate for a consistent goalscorer to lead the line. That has prompted serious consideration of Bowen, who has developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable and versatile forwards in recent years.
Bowen’s importance to West Ham
Bowen has been the heartbeat of West Ham’s attack this season, continuing his fine form from previous campaigns. Having signed a new long-term contract in October 2023 — keeping him at the London Stadium until 2030 — the England international’s commitment gives the Hammers significant leverage in any potential transfer negotiations.
However, with West Ham struggling for consistency and facing financial pressures that could force them to sell before they buy in January, the idea of a lucrative offer from a Champions League-chasing club like Tottenham may at least prompt internal discussion.
The report adds that the prospect of Champions League football could prove tempting for Bowen, who is entering the prime years of his career and has already proven he can deliver at the top level.
What Bowen has said about Spurs
Interestingly, Bowen spoke about Tottenham after West Ham’s 3-0 defeat to the north London side at the London Stadium last month, where he reflected on the challenge of facing Frank’s tactically innovative team.
“In the first half, I thought we did OK,” Bowen said after the match. “We had a couple of chances, got some crosses into the box, and defended set-pieces really well. We knew Thomas Frank from Brentford — he’s very inventive with set-pieces and has had a lot of success over the years.
We were in a good position at half-time, but then we conceded from a set-piece. Those are the fine details we need to focus on. We have to take pride in keeping the ball out of the net.”
A move that would stir emotions
Should Tottenham follow through with their interest, Bowen would be fully aware of the reaction such a transfer would generate among both fanbases. Speaking to West Ham’s official website ahead of a London derby in May, the winger acknowledged the significance of facing Spurs.
“Every derby match is special for everyone associated with both clubs,” he said. “The games have that extra intensity which makes them exciting to play in.
We know our season has been disappointing, but one win over Spurs won’t make up for that — it would still mean a lot. Winning that game not only gives us local bragging rights but also helps us climb above them in the table.”
Tottenham’s attacking dilemma
For Tottenham, Bowen’s arrival would offer the perfect solution to their attacking imbalance. His versatility across the frontline, eye for goal, and work rate off the ball make him a tailor-made fit for Frank’s high-pressing system. Moreover, his Premier League experience would allow him to make an immediate impact — something Spurs desperately need if they are to maintain their push for the top four.
While West Ham are reluctant to lose their star man, the coming transfer window could test their resolve. With Tottenham’s ambition clear and Bowen’s profile matching exactly what they lack, this potential transfer saga could become one of the headline stories of the January window.