West Ham could now sign James Ward-Prowse amid £25m claim – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed West Ham could sign James Ward-Prowse for £50million this summer despite Southampton placing a £75million price tag on his head.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the south coast club are simply looking to stave off interest in the 27-year-old “star performer”.
According to the Daily Mirror (15 June), David Moyes is keen to bring Ward-Prowse to West Ham this summer.
Southampton have reportedly slapped a £75million price tag on the England international – who scored 10 league goals in the 2021-22 campaign.
The set-piece specialist penned a fresh five-year deal at St Mary’s Stadium last summer (2021).
Whelan claimed the Saints would be “stupid” not to accept a fee of £50million for their captain.
“That price tag is hefty – especially when you look at what the likes of Erling Haaland has gone for,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I think it’s a ploy from Southampton to keep him around or try and get as much as they can for him.
“I’d say Ward-Prowse is worth around £45-50million. That would be reasonable for Southampton and reasonable for the buying club.
“I think that a £75million price tag is just trying to stave off the wolves.
“Look around in the Premier League. He’s a star performer for Southampton – but it’s Southampton. Look at the market and what other big players are going for.
“If an offer comes in from West Ham or any club for £50million – I think they’d be stupid not to take it.
“I think he deserves a move. Southampton’s blueprint has always seen them sell players to bring in another three or four – so it would make sense.”
In other news, pundit claims West Ham star could complete £30m Newcastle United move after source reveal.