Newcastle United and Liverpool told to make ‘smart move’ for £35m Premier League captain

Newcastle United and Liverpool should ‘test the water’ over a possible move for Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse.

The England midfielder is facing a major decision over his future with the Saints after Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat against Fulham confirmed their relegation into the Championship. Ward Prowse has been one of the few positives of a nightmare season for his side after he scored ten goals and provided four assists in 43 appearances in all competitions.

Despite that form, the Saints will end the season sat at the foot of the table and they will begin preparations for life in the second tier once their campaign comes to a close on Sunday week. Several of their players have already been linked with a move away from the club, with midfielder Romeo Lavia, full-back Kyle Walker-Peters and centre-back Mohammed Salisu said to be attracting interest from elsewhere.

However, club captain Ward-Prowse is almost certain to depart and former Manchester City and England defender Micah Richards believes Newcastle and Liverpool should offer the midfielder a second chance in the Premier League.

Writing in the Daily Mail after the Saints relegated was confirmed, Richards said: “James Ward-Prowse will be low today. I have been in the situation as a captain when your club are relegated and the responsibility you feel is immense. It is not something you get over easily and he certainly will not be putting himself first. But we have to be honest: he is a saleable asset for Southampton and plenty of clubs will be keen on him. He will be a smart buy for someone and it would not be the worst decision in the world if Liverpool, who need a replacement for James Milner, or Newcastle tested the water when the window opens.”

According to Football Transfers, Ward-Prowse is worth around £35million, however Southampton are expected to demand more.

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