Southampton plotting shock move to re-sign James Ward-Prowse | OneFootball

Southampton are setting their sights on a January reunion with James Ward-Prowse

Southampton are plotting a move to sign James Ward-Prowse from West Ham in the January transfer window.

According to GiveMeSport, the Saints are eyeing a return for the midfielder after he was iced out by new manager Nuno Espírito Santo.

The 30-year-old was not even selected on the bench for the Portuguese coach’s first game in charge on Monday evening.

Ward-Prowse joined the London outfit in the 2023 summer transfer window following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League.

The player even worked with Espírito Santo during a loan spell with Nottingham Forest, but he returned to the London Stadium in January this year after the Reds terminated the deal when he fell down the pecking order of the first team squad.

Southampton eye James Ward-Prowse deal

Southampton are reportedly looking to take advantage of Ward-Prowse’s situation by offering him a lifeline of first team football in January.

It is believed that the Saints are looking to lure him back to St. Mary’s just over two years after his initial exit.

Ward-Prowse came through the club’s academy system, and was a key part of the side during their 11-year stint in the Premier League.

However, relegation to the Championship led to him making the switch to West Ham in a deal worth a reported £30 million.

It’s understood that the Hammers’ new boss has informed Ward-Prowse that he is no longer of use to the club, which led to his absence last Monday evening against Everton.

It’s believed that Ward-Prowse is keen to earn game time elsewhere, which could open the door to a January return to St. Mary’s.

However, Southampton are likely to face competition from a number of teams if the midfielder is made available on the market.

But there is reportedly confidence at the Hampshire outfit that they can persuade the player to return to the club.

James Ward-Prowse return would be a boost for Southampton

Ward-Prowse was an important player at West Ham under Graham Potter, so this development shows the change in direction taking place there under Espírito Santo.

Their loss could be Southampton’s gain in January, as a return would be a welcome boost to Will Still’s first team squad.

Ward-Prowse has so much experience of the top level that he can bring to the club from his time competing in the Premier League, and he remains a top flight capable player even if he doesn’t fit Espírito Santo’s plans.

If they can get a deal done with West Ham, then this could be a really solid piece of business by Southampton that will also be very welcome by supporters.