Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Manchester United are interested in signing Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
According to a report from Fichajes, Newcastle have moved ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United in a race to sign 28-year-old English midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
James Ward-Prowse has been a key player for Southampton over the years. And he has established himself as a reliable central midfielder in the Premier League. The Englishman has also been the club captain at the Premier League club for some time.
Apart from his passing ability, Ward-Prowse remains one of the best free-kick takers in the world. And Newcastle could certainly use someone like him in the midfield. Jonjo Shelvey left the club during the January transfer window. And the Magpies are now reliant on Bruno Guimaraes as the only accomplished passer in the middle of the park.
Eddie Howe needs to add more depth and quality to the position. And it remains to be seen whether Newcastle United can agree on a deal with Southampton for their captain. The 28-year-old is at the peak of his career and will feel that this is the final opportunity for aim to join an ambitious club.
Newcastle United are well placed to secure Champions League qualification. And a top-four finish would make them an attractive option for most players. Ward-Prowse could be tempted to join Newcastle in the summer add test himself in the Champions league.
It remains to be seen whether Southampton are willing to sell their captain at the end of the season. But dropping out of the Premier League might force their hand. Ward-Prowse has scored eight goals across all competitions this season. And he would add a new dimension to the Newcastle midfield.
The Magpies will be competing in the Champions League next season. And they will need to bring in better players so that they can compete on all fronts. The Tyneside outfit have also shown interest in other midfielders, including Adrien Rabiot.
Ward-Prowse is certainly an upgrade on their current options apart from Guimaraes. And the 28-year-old will improve them immensely. Furthermore, he is well-settled in the Premier League and could come in and make an immediate impact for Newcastle next season.
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea will need to bring in midfield reinforcements as well. While Manchester United need to replace players like Fred and Scott McTominay, Chelsea will have to bring in reinforcements if N’Golo Kante moves on as a free agent.
