West Ham are on the hunt for a midfielder and are interested in James Ward-Prowse but have requested a cut-price deal.
According to the Daily Mail, West Ham would look for Southampton to apply a 50% discount onto any potential Ward-Prowse deal.
“Southampton want £40m for Ward-Prowse but suitors hope to prise him away for almost half that.”
The report adds that Southampton are closing in on a move for Shea Charles from Manchester City for a reported £11million fee.
As a result of this move coming together, the Saints are expecting a host of clubs to make moves for in-demand midfield duo Romeo Lavia and Ward-Prowse.
West Ham are said to be one of Ward-Prowse’s key suitors and they have the money to do a deal given the huge cash injection they have just received.
West Ham want a cheaper deal
West Ham find themselves in tough situation, as any club they attempt to do business with will be aware that the Hammers have money.
This likely means the club’s negotiators will need to be vigilant not to overpay which could set a dangerous precedent.
If they overpay for one deal they will have to do the same for every signing they make.
Ward-Prowse would be a top addition for any club who signed him, however we hope he stays put at St Marys.
Southampton would likely need to target another incoming if Ward-Prowse is to leave with Lavia also likely to leave. Charles as an incoming is a great start but if the Saints want to bounce straight back to the Premier League, they will need more.