Eddie Howe really likes ‘unbelievable’ 28-year-old, but he’s now set to join West Ham for £30m

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Newcastle United have been linked with signing James Ward-Prowse this summer, who finally has a route back to the Premier League.

The 28-year-old has been destined for a move away from Southampton ever since their relegation to the Championship was confirmed. He was named as a midfield target for Newcastle, who have been long-term admirers of the set piece extraordinaire.

Money always looked like it would stop Ward-Prowse joining Eddie Howe’s side, despite the Toon boss being a big fan of the Saints skipper.

But Newcastle were put off by the £50million asking price, and took their money to Italy where they bought an elite player in Sandro Tonali.

Now Southampton have lowered their demands, which has created an opportunity for one of Newcastle’s Premier League rivals.

West Ham agree James Ward-Prowse deal

According to the Athletic, West Ham have agreed a fee of £30million to sign Ward-Prowse from Southampton. They state that he is set to join the Hammers on a four-year deal.

It had been reported that they were walking away from a deal for JWP last week, but it looks like an agreement has now been reached and he is on his way to the London Stadium.

The deal is worth £20million less than what Southampton initially wanted, which sums up how over-priced he initially was. Newcastle were right to move on, and have put their money to better use.

As for West Ham, they will be delighted to finally agree a deal for Ward-Prowse. He is an ‘unbelievable‘ player, and exactly what they need after selling Declan Rice to Arsenal.

£30million would have been a much more acceptable price for Newcastle to pay, but there will be no tears shed over missing out. Howe already has a stacked midfield, and has been boosted by the pre-season performances of Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley.