Manchester United are said to have joined the race for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
What's the word?
That is according to a report from The Sun, who claimed that Erik ten Hag and co are keeping a close eye on the England international, with the Red Devils manager said to be desperate to bolster his midfield after the departures of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata.
The Saints captain is rated at £28.8m by Transfermarkt, with his contract expiring in June 2026, having agreed a new deal just last year.
Ten Hag's dream player
The latest news surrounding Southampton’s dead-ball specialist will be refreshing, considering the rumours around Frenkie de Jong, as United supporters will surely be elated at the prospect of a classy and respectful midfielder joining their beloved club.
The 27-year-old’s leadership qualities and ability to dictate play through mastering the basics make him a sure-fire signing who would slot right into Ten Hag's mass-possession system.
There is also an apparent lack of leadership on the pitch at the club - something that the 11-cap England international could remedy, having shone in a captaincy role under Ralph Hasenhuttl at St Mary's.
Dubbed a "machine" by his boss in 2020, the Southampton skipper had yet another stellar season on a personal level, bagging ten goals and chipping in with a further five assists in 36 appearances for the Saints.
Now in the prime of his career and gaining acknowledgement on the international stage, the 27-year-old could be looking to take the next step of his career in joining a club who will, at the very least, challenge for the European places every year.
Also, with Ward-Prowse renowned for his extreme professionalism, in stark contrast to some of the less than cerebral reports which have emerged about some United players' attitudes in recent months, the Englishman could well be a dream prospective signing for Ten Hag at Old Trafford.
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