Newcastle told to lodge 'special' bid to sign 27-year-old 'better than Le Tissier' after inside source reveal - pundit
Newcastle United would need to table a "special" bid to sign Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
That is the view of ex-Premier League striker Kevin Phillips, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about a potential move for the 27-year-old in January.
The Magpies' recruitment team are drawing up a list of January targets despite the absence of a permanent manager or director of football.
As revealed by Football Insider (28th October), that Ward-Prowse is a firm target for Newcastle under new ownership.
Phillips claimed the England international would be a good signing "for any club".
"Ward-Prowse is a top, top player," he told Football Insider.
"It would take a fair bit of money to get him out of Southampton though because he signed a new deal at the beginning of the season. He committed to the club. It would take something special to get him out of there.
"For me, he's the best dead-ball specialist in the Premier League. That is why he'd be a massive asset for Newcastle. It would be an exciting signing.
"You don't want to be paying over the odds though. Any club selling to Newcastle will be charging a premium. They must be prepared for that.
"Ward-Prowse would be a solid signing for any club."
Speaking to Stadium Astro with Phillips on January 1st, Premier League great David James said Ward-Prowse is "better then Matt Le Tissier".
The centre-midfielder has contributed two goals and two assists in 10 appearances this season.