West Ham United have failed with a part-exchange ploy for James Ward-Prowse, as Southampton continue to demand £40 million in cash.
According to Daily Mail, Southampton have rejected a part-exchange proposal from West Ham United for James Ward-Prowse. The deal involved Flynn Downes going the other way, as the Saints hold out for £40 million in cash for their captain.
Have West Ham United created a problem for themselves with their long, drawn-out saga for the sale of Declan Rice? The way the situation evolved, teams will demand significantly from the Hammers as they seek a new midfielder.
Teams know West Ham have the Rice cash and will look for the best deals possible. The Hammers have been interested in Joao Palhinha. But Fulham are holding out for a massive payday in exchange for the Portuguese midfielder.
Now, Southampton are also demanding significantly for their captain James Ward-Prowse. The 28-year-old had another exceptional season but unfortunately could not help the Saints avoid relegation. He has come in high demand since a move back to the Premier League would make sense to carry on with his ambitions.
West Ham had intensified their chase of Ward-Prowse but did want to overpay for the £40 million-rated midfield general. Transfermarkt lists his value just a bit over the £30 million mark, but Southampton want £40 million.
West Ham had reportedly offered Flynn Downes in part-exchange plus cash for the midfielder, which the Saints have turned down. The Hammers seemingly value Ward-Prowse at £25 million. But Southampton are unwilling to let him leave for anything less than £40 million.
The Saints are not keen on a par-exchange deal and want a cash-only agreement. While the Hammers are keen on Ward-Prowse, they have other alternatives apart from those mentioned before. AS Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana remains a target., but any move will depend on his asking price.
Ward-Prowse brings leadership qualities that West Ham have lost following Rice’s move to Arsenal. The English international has left a considerable void to fill, which the Southampton captain can sufficiently close. However, the Hammers may have put themselves in a difficult position with their negotiation tactics with Arsenal in the Rice deal.
For now, Ward-Prowse remains a top target for David Moyes, as the two teams may have to reach a compromise to see the midfielder return to the Premier League.
