Newcastle must swoop in if West Ham think they can get ‘unbelievable’ 28-year-old for £20m

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Newcastle United are looking to sign another midfielder after Sandro Tonali, while West Ham need to replace their captain.

The Magpies have brought in Tonali, who Toon officials think can be just as good as Declan Rice. As for the Hammers, they are looking to replace the real thing.

Rice is signing for Arsenal, which means David Moyes desperately needs to sign someone who can fill his boots. Luckily, they are getting a lot of cash to do just that.

With Arsenal spending £105million on Rice, West Ham have the funds available to bring in two or three top quality players to ease the pain of losing the 24-year-old.

And one option is James Ward-Prowse.

West Ham eye James Ward-Prowse deal

West Ham have been linked with replacing Rice with Ward-Prowse. A move for the 28-year-old would make sense, as he is available for a move following Southampton’s relegation. He is also a leader, which West Ham need as last season’s skipper heads to the Emirates.

According to a recent report from the Daily Mail, the Saints want to receive £40million for Ward-Prowse, who is contracted at St Mary’s until 2026.

However, the report adds that suitors like West Ham are hoping to do a deal for half that amount.

And if the ‘unbelievable‘ midfielder really can be bought for around £20million then Newcastle have to enter the conversation.

Newcastle want a bargain

Ward-Prowse is also a target for Newcastle, with Eddie Howe a big fan of the set piece wizard. The Magpies are keen to grab a bargain, and a £20million deal would signify just that.

Newcastle are looking to sign another midfielder, and Ward-Prowse could be a smart addition – but only for the right price. £20million for a player of his quality would have to be considered a bargain.

He would offer even more competition in the middle of the park, while his free-kick ability would make him a valuable commodity. While Kieran Trippier’s set pieces are great, even he will admit that he’s nowhere near the same level as JWP.

It all comes down to price. Obviously West Ham’s need for Ward-Prowse is greater, and they probably have more money to spend. But Newcastle has to be more appealing given the pull of Champions League football.

If a £20million deal really is possible then Newcastle can’t let West Ham swoop in and snatch a bargain.