West Ham United hold strong interest in James Ward-Prowse transfer with price tag enquired
West Ham United hold a “strong interest” in signing Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse this summer and have enquired about his price tag, according to Football League World.
The Hammers will look to use money from the potential sale of Declan Rice this summer to fund the purchase of the England international, who scored nine goals and provided four assists in the Premier League last season.
The midfielder will still cost in the region of £40million despite the Saints getting relegated to the Championship last season.
A host of top-flight clubs have been linked with Ward-Prowse, including Aston Villa, Newcastle, Liverpool and Wolves.
The Daily Mail previously reported (15 May) that the 28-year-old does not have a relegation clause in his contract at St Mary’s Stadium.
Pricey
It comes as no surprise that a host of Premier League clubs are interested in signing Ward-Prowse this summer.
The free-kick specialist has carried Southampton almost single-handedly for years now and deserves his chance to ply his trade away from the Championship outfit. With bags of Premier League experience as well as amassing 11 caps for England, the midfielder would bring leadership both on and off the field for the club.
However, the price remains a worry for the Hammers.
For a player who has just been relegated and therefore seen his value depreciate, £40million is a little on the steep side.
Yes, David Moyes is likely to have a sizeable transfer purse when Rice is sold, but it doesn’t look wise to spend it all on a 28-year-old who plays in a similar position to Lucas Paqueta.
If West Ham United can bring Southampton’s valuation down, then this is certainly a transfer to pursue.