West Ham respond to Nottingham Forest’s loan-to-buy Ward-Prowse plan
West Ham prefer a permanent exit for midfielder James Ward-Prowse before Friday’s (30 August) transfer deadline, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (26 August) that Nottingham Forest are plotting an ambitious late move for the 29-year-old.
Sources say the Midlands club are likely to test West Ham’s resolve with a loan-to-buy offer for Ward-Prowse – and are just one of the Premier League sides who have been alerted to his availability.
However, the Irons are desperate to trim the squad for good and reduce the wage bill – as well as bring in a fee for the set-piece specialist.
It is believed Julen Lopetegui’s side are keen to recoup as much of the £30million they paid to land him 12 months ago as possible.
West Ham want permanent Ward-Prowse sale as Soler plan revealed
West Ham have already identified a replacement for Ward-Prowse, with Paris Saint-Germain star Carlos Soler emerging as their top target.
However, Football Insider revealed on Monday (26 August) that the club need to sell before they can bring in any new faces.
England international Ward-Prowse notched seven goals and 11 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions last term in his first season at West Ham.
His contract at the London Stadium runs until June 2027.
However, the midfielder has managed just 16 minutes in the opening two games this season and has slipped down the pecking order following Lopetegui’s arrival.
In other news, West Ham fans fuming after what Michail Antonio did.
For more West Ham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.