Liverpool willing to wait for Ward-Prowse as Southampton demand £50m

Liverpool are reportedly willing to bide their time in their pursuit of Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse. The 28-year-old is expected to leave St. Mary’s this summer following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League. However, the club’s £50million asking price has deterred potential buyers, leading to speculation that the asking price may have to be lowered as the transfer window draws to a close.

Newcastle United and West Ham are among the clubs monitoring Ward-Prowse’s situation, but Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is said to be keen to add another midfielder to his ranks, having already secured the signing of Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister.

Liverpool recently withdrew from the race to sign Jude Bellingham, who is set to join Real Madrid, and have also seen the departures of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner, and Naby Keita at the end of their contracts. Despite Ward-Prowse’s age, Liverpool are said to be willing to pay around £25million for the England international.

In comparison, Chelsea’s Mason Mount would likely command a much higher fee, with the midfielder linked to Manchester United and also facing the possibility of being asked to see out the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge by new Blues manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Ward-Prowse is reportedly ready for a new challenge after spending his entire career to date at Southampton. He made his debut for the club 12 years ago and has since made 409 appearances for the Saints. However, with the club now in the Championship, Ward-Prowse looks likely to move on to pastures new this summer.

In conclusion, Liverpool’s willingness to wait for the right price for Ward-Prowse demonstrates their shrewdness in the transfer market. With their midfield in need of reinforcements, the England international could prove to be a valuable addition to Klopp’s squad, particularly at a price point that is lower than that of other potential targets. The coming weeks will reveal whether Liverpool can secure the midfielder’s signature or if they will have to look elsewhere to bolster their midfield options.