Newcastle United, West Ham & Tottenham free to sign £35m-rated Premier League star - on one condition

The England international has been heavily linked with Newcastle United over the last 12 months.

Southampton have reportedly told James Ward-Prowse he can leave this summer - if their 2022-23 Premier League season ends in relegation.

Things currently look bleak for the Saints, who sit bottom of the league table and four from safety following a run of just one victory in eight matches.

Interim boss Ruben Selles has seven games to save the South Coast club, but with Arsenal, Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool still to play, they are heavily tipped to drop into the Championship.

Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)placeholder image
Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In an effort to cut the wage bill - a natural consequence of relegation - Ward-Prowse is among the players free to find another club, according to talkSPORT.

The 28-year-old has spent his entire career at St Mary’s, although has previously attracted interest from Newcastle, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United. It’s claimed the trio are keeping tabs on the central midfielder’s situation.

Ward-Prowse is considered a set-piece specialist and is just one direct free-kick away from equalling David Beckham’s Premier League record of 18 converted.

The 11-capped England international has played 402 times for the Saints, which includes 53 goals and provided 51 assists. In 22-23, Ward-Prowse has netted nine times and registerted three assists.

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

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