Nigel Reo-Coker tips Newcastle United to target the transfer of Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse. The midfielder is also now a target for St James’ Park boss Eddie Howe.
Newcastle are exploring the transfer of Ward-Prowse as Howe is a fan of the Southampton captain. The Magpies manager is keen to improve his engine room over the off-season and sees value in the 28-year-old. Toon director of football Dan Ashworth also backs the move.
Ward-Prowse has proven himself to be integral to Southampton since graduating from the south coast side’s academy. He has now amassed more than 400 first-team appearances in all competitions. The Portsmouth-born technician has also earned 11 caps for England yet.
Newcastle United are interested in James Ward-Prowse’s transfer
Now, the Daily Mail reports that Howe sees Ward-Prowse as a transfer target for Newcastle given Southampton’s situation. The Saints are fighting to avoid relegation from the Premier League. While the Toon are eying qualification for Europe, possibly the Champions League.
Reports by 90min also note Ward-Prowse as a target for Newcastle as Howe and Ashworth are big fans of the Southampton skipper. It even notes that the midfielder is ready to leave St Mary’s this summer. But the Saints would also want £50m to let their skipper leave the club.
Southampton can also hold firm in their valuation with Aston Villa, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur interested in Ward-Prowse’s transfer. Old Trafford chiefs believe he can solve some of their issues. But Newcastle have asked to be kept informed of his situation.
Nigel Reo-Coker expects vast interest in the Southampton captain
Reo-Coker has now suggested that he could see the midfielder fitting in at Aston Villa were Unai Emery to swoop. But the former West Ham United midfielder would not be surprised if Newcastle were to rival any interest in Ward-Prowse for the Southampton star’s transfer.
Reo-Coker told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I think he is a great player. When you talk about quality and delivery, he’s probably up there with Kevin De Bruyne.
“Whether it’s from set pieces or also dead ball situations, I think there will be a number of Premier League clubs that require his services. I could see him fitting in at Aston Villa or even Crystal Palace if they stay up.
“There will be big takers for him. I wouldn’t even be surprised if Newcastle would be another club as they are going to need a bigger squad to compete.”
Ward-Prowse has three more years to run on his £100k-a-week contract with Southampton to potentially frustrate Newcastle et al’s interest in a transfer given the Saints’ asking price.
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