West Ham should reject any offers for Jarrod Bowen this summer if they aim to make progress, according to former defender Anton Ferdinand.

The Hammers have faced a challenging season, with Julen Lopetegui being dismissed in January and conditions under new manager Graham Potter showing little improvement, as the club sits at 17th in the Premier League.

Relegation is nearly avoided, and while Ferdinand believes former Brighton head coach Potter is a suitable match for West Ham, he underscored the vital role of 10-goal captain Bowen in the club's long-term strategy at the London Stadium.

“Top players always attract interest, and Jarrod is no exception, but if we want to achieve more next year and position ourselves strongly, Jarrod Bowen must remain with the club,” Ferdinand stated to the PA news agency during a London FA event focused on combating discrimination in grassroots football.

“I see no other option. I don't envision him playing anywhere besides West Ham.”

“He is a West Ham legend, the team captain, and he is joining a West Ham family through the Dyers, so I can't imagine him departing anytime soon.

“Moreover, he has no desire to leave. That's crucial. Even if other clubs pursue you, if the player and club are unwilling, the move won't happen.”

Highlights have been scarce this season, but Potter did orchestrate a 1-0 win against Arsenal in February.

Ferdinand added: “I think it's an excellent fit for the club. I appreciated his work at Brighton, though he couldn't fully execute it at Chelsea.

“It's tough to evaluate him with a squad that's not his own, and I'm confident there will be changes in the summer.

“We all want next year to be an improvement, and all West Ham fans agree. I believe Graham Potter is the right leader to guide us forward.”