One West Ham stumbling block that could block cut-price James Ward-Prowse exit

West Ham United could continue their massive squad overhaul by selling James Ward-Prowse to Southampton.

The Saints have emerged as candidates to re-sign their former captain, who joined the Hammers in 2023 for £30million.

Nuno Espirito Santo hasn't shown much faith in the 31-year-old Englishman and he's now being linked with an exit.

Ward-Prowse has one year left on his contract at London Stadium, but he could be on his way out in the final days of the transfer window.

The East London club sold Mateus Fernandes and Freddie Potts earlier this summer and the former Southampton star could be the next departure from the engine room.

In the second round of the Carabao Cup at St Mary's Stadium, the Englishman wasn't a part of Nuno's squad as the Irons beat the Saints 4-1.

West Ham stance on James Ward-Prowse exit emerges

There has been uncertainty around Ward-Prowse's future at West Ham since his return from Burnley.

It now looks like the Hammers are finally willing to sanction the midfielder's exit and he would be allowed to leave for a "nominal" fee.

According to The Sun on 26 August, Southampton are exploring a deal to bring their former skipper back to Hampshire.

Ward-Prowse is thought to be open to returning to St Mary's Stadium before the fast-approaching transfer deadline.

What could prove to be a stumbling block for the Saints is the midfielder's £50,000-a-week wages he's thought to be currently on at London Stadium.

It looks like Southampton may need to find a compromise with Ward-Prowse to get a deal over the line.

Nuno's midfield assessed if London Stadium transfer speculation comes true

Soungoutou Magassa and Mohamadou Kante could both leave West Ham in the coming days, with the club open to offers for the midfield duo.

Edson Alvarez is another player whose future looks to be away from the Hammers.

Nuno has had to rely on Lewis Orford as one of his midfielders in recent matches.

Tomas Soucek is currently out injured, and in his absence, there isn't much experience at the Portuguese manager's disposal.

The Irons have signed Arne Engels and Divine Makasa, but they could be in desperate need of reinforcements if Ward-Prowse becomes a part of the midfield exodus in E20.