Southampton eyeing move to re-sign club legend from Premier League club | OneFootball

Southampton explore return for former captain amid West Ham exile

Ward-Prowse’s uncertain position at West Ham

Southampton are considering a January move to re-sign James Ward-Prowse after the midfielder was frozen out by West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo, according to GiveMeSport. Senior reporter Andrew Dillon has revealed that the England international has been told he has no future at the London Stadium and will not be involved in first-team training.

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Ward-Prowse left St Mary’s in 2023 in a £30 million deal following relegation, but his standing has quickly shifted. Omitted from the squad for West Ham’s game against Everton, his absence highlights how far he has fallen under Nuno, despite being a regular starter under former coach Graham Potter.

Saints identify opportunity in winter window

Southampton are eager to strengthen in their push for promotion back to the Premier League and Ward-Prowse represents both quality and familiarity. Dillon reports that influential figures behind the scenes are ready to hold fresh negotiations with West Ham, convinced that the 30-year-old could play a pivotal role in their campaign.

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Ward-Prowse’s contract, worth £115,000 per week before bonuses, makes him a high earner, but his potential impact on Southampton’s midfield remains significant. Known for his set-piece ability, which Potter once described as “very dangerous”, he would bring both leadership and technical precision.

Strategic timing for Southampton

The Saints have already conducted business with West Ham this season, selling Mateus Fernandes in a deal worth up to £42 million, while Kyle Walker-Peters also made the switch to East London. Those existing channels of negotiation could smooth the path for Ward-Prowse’s return.

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It is understood that Ward-Prowse handled Nuno’s decision professionally, without confrontation, but his omission presents Southampton with a timely chance. His return would not just be symbolic, it would be aimed squarely at ensuring immediate promotion.

Potential impact on promotion push

For Will Still, bringing back Ward-Prowse would add a proven Championship-level performer who knows both the club and the demands of leadership. A return would provide energy in midfield, precision from set-pieces and a rallying figurehead for a promotion push.

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This report will be met with excitement and hope amongst Southampton supporters. James Ward-Prowse remains the figure who best represents the identity of the club over the past decade. His leadership, professionalism and technical brilliance from dead-ball situations were defining features of his time at St Mary’s, and fans have long dreamed of a reunion.

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Ward-Prowse is not just another player, he is a symbol of the connection between the club and its community. To see him back in red and white would feel like a restoration of pride, particularly at a time when the goal of promotion demands both experience and stability. Supporters know his qualities, from his tireless work rate to his trademark free kicks, and believe that he could be the missing ingredient in the push for an immediate return to the Premier League.

There is also a recognition that West Ham no longer value him, which makes the timing perfect. For Southampton fans, the idea of seeing him cast aside in London is frustrating, but his potential comeback feels poetic, a chance for redemption for both the player and the club. If Ward-Prowse does walk back out at St Mary’s this winter, it will feel like more than just a signing, it will feel like the return of a leader to guide them home.