Newcastle United have been linked with signing James Ward-Prowse this summer, but it now looks like he will be playing against the Magpies rather than for them.
The Southampton midfielder has looked destined for a return to the Premier League ever since the Saints were relegated to the Championship, but a move away from St Mary’s has not been forthcoming as of yet.
Ward-Prowse has been a target for Newcastle, with Eddie Howe a big fan of the England international. Kieran Trippier even joked earlier in the year about him moving to St James’ Park.
But the Magpies were put off by his £50million price tag, and turned their attention elsewhere.
It has always felt likely that Southampton would drop their price tag, and it now looks like that might be the case – which is good news for Newcastle’s Premier League rivals West Ham.
West Ham make their move for James Ward-Prowse
According to Sky Sports, West Ham have held positive talks with Southampton about signing Ward-Prowse this summer. They state that a deal is now edging closer, with personal terms not expected to be a problem.
Ward-Prowse would be a great signing for the Hammers, who are looking to replace Declan Rice after he joined Arsenal.
They need to fill the hole he has left in midfield, while they also need leadership. In Ward-Prowse they will get both, assuming a deal can be agreed.
It was previously stated that West Ham are confident they can sign JWP, and it does not look like that confidence was misplaced.
They appear to be getting closer to a deal, which will end all talk of the ‘unbelievable‘ 28-year-old moving to Newcastle.
It remains to be seen how much West Ham will have to pay, but it was claimed on Monday night that a £25million bid had been made. And with an agreement getting closer, you have to imagine it will be close to that figure.
Only time will tell if Newcastle missed out, but Toon fans are more than happy with Sandro Tonali instead.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
