Tiemoue Bakayoko, a player previously targeted by David Moyes with an estimated £40 million price tag, has been released by Chelsea. Making him a free agent. West Ham has been consistently linked with a potential signing of the 28-year-old midfielder since 2021. Despite joining Chelsea from Monaco in 2017 for a significant fee. Bakayoko’s time at Stamford Bridge has been underwhelming, with only 24 Premier League appearances for the club.
Over the past few years, Bakayoko has had loan spells at Monaco, Napoli, and AC Milan on two separate occasions. Recently, the 6ft 2in midfielder was present at the London Stadium. Where he watched West Ham emerge victorious against Leeds in their last home game of the Premier League season. He shared a picture online featuring his “brothers” Lucas Paqueta and Kurt Zouma.
Chelsea has initiated the process of reducing the size of their excessively large squad by releasing players, including the recently watched West Ham target, Bakayoko. Who has now become a free agent. Despite Chelsea’s significant investment in Bakayoko. The decision has been made to let him go. In an official statement. Chelsea expressed gratitude to Bakayoko for his contributions during his time with the club. Acknowledging his reported interest from West Ham.
Chelsea and Bakayoko
Chelsea acknowledged Bakayoko’s past contributions, highlighting his frequent appearances under Antonio Conte. Including playing the entirety of their victorious 2018 FA Cup final against Manchester United, where he scored three goals that season. The club mentioned Bakayoko’s subsequent loan spells. Including a return to Monaco and a stint at AC Milan when they secured the Serie A title.
Chelsea expressed gratitude for Bakayoko’s time at Stamford Bridge on their official website. As he departed the club. With new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino having a wide array of options. It seemed evident that Bakayoko did not factor into his plans.
Although Bakayoko’s tenure at Chelsea was underwhelming, being released could potentially pique the interest of West Ham. Especially since they are in need of bolstering their central midfield following the release of Manuel Lanzini and the potential departure of Declan Rice. Bakayoko’s existing friendships with members of the West Ham team. Further add intrigue to his attendance at the recent home game against Leeds.
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