Newcastle have now received a boost in their pursuit of James Ward-Prowse as Eddie Howe continues to monitor the Southampton maestro.
What’s the story?
Well – according to 90min – Newcastle are very keen to sign the England international this summer.
It is said that Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth – Director of Football at St James’ Park – are huge fans of Ward-Prowse, with the Magpies asking to be kept informed about his situation.
Now, it seems the 28-year-old is ready to leave Southampton.
90min believe Ward-Prowse is set to depart the Saints as relegation from the Premier League looks a certainty after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace.
Southampton currently sit bottom of England’s top-flight with just 23 points to their name, four points off safety.
90min add that the Saints will demand £50m for Ward-Prowse this summer, who has been at St Mary’s since the age of eight.
By the sounds of things in 90min’s story, the Southampton No.8 is ready to leave regardless of whether Ruben Selles manages to keep the Saints in the Premier League.
Ward-Prowse has made 38 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring nine goals while also providing three assists.
Ward-Prowse would shine for Newcastle
In our view, this could be the weapon which takes Newcastle up a gear.
For a start, Ward-Prowse is one of the best technicians in Europe, with his deliveries from dead ball situations up there amongst anybody to have played the game.
Just think of giants such as Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Joelinton and others waiting in the box as the England international swings one in – Newcastle would probably be the most dangerous side from set-pieces around.
Additionally, Howe’s system is very good at getting midfielders into the final third, as seen when Sean Longstaff scored twice to down Southampton in the Carabao Cup Semi-Final.
Ward-Prowse, having scored 47 Premier League goals throughout his career, is a strong finisher and a tireless athlete, so he should be able to thrive in such a setup.
Be sure to keep an eye on his situation this summer, as we can’t see him staying on the south coast even if Southampton avoid relegation.
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