West Ham United target James Ward-Prowse a “quality” player who suits the Hammers greatly, but his asking price is too high, according to Carlton Cole.
Speaking onDavid Moyes., the former Hammers hero said that Ward-Prowse would suit West Ham’s style well while his ability to fit into the team quickly makes him ideal for David Moyes.
However, he questioned Southampton’s asking price for the 28-year-old due to their Championship status, noting that anything above £30million would be unfair.
Cole said: “Of course, it would be a good deal [for James Ward-Prowse]. Playing Premier League football, playing in Europe as well. It’s very attractive for any footballer.
“He obviously knows what it’s about. He’s a homegrown player which is something that David Moyes would probably want. I know what David Moyes wants, he players to bed in quickly and he’d be able to do that.
“He’s a Premier League player, an England player and hopefully, they can get a deal done as soon as possible because he’s a really tight player. I know the other boys will thrive off playing with him as well, he’s just a quality player.
“Right now, because he’s in the Championship, I’d say he’s worth £25million to £30million, max. What player in the Championship goes for £50-60million? I think that’s fair and both parties should be happy about that.”
Southampton’s asking price of £40million [Sky Sports] does feel a little bit steep considering their relegation, so Cole’s notion here rings true.
However, naturally, the Saints are going to want to get the most for their captain, who got an assist in their Championship opener against Sheffield Wednesday.
It is a tough situation West Ham find themselves in too, as their bumper £105million sale of Declan Rice means other clubs are likely to charge a bit higher as they know the Hammers have plenty of money to spend.
However, if they want to secure their man they may have to act quickly after the Daily Star reported (5 August) that Tottenham are attempting to hijack the deal.
However, Ward-Prowse has specific traits that suit West Ham very well, so Southampton will be reluctant to let him go knowing how much he could be worth to the Hammers. His set-piece skill would massively benefit West Ham, who frequently rely on corners and free-kicks for goals.
His leadership too would be a massive plus given the void left by former captain Rice’s departure. His experience in the Premier League too means he is likely to settle very quickly.
As negotiations continue, West Ham will not want to overspend to get their man but amid potential hijackings and stalls in negotiations, they may just want to get this deal over the line.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have tabled a fresh £25.9million bid for a Mexican midfield maestro.
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