Francis Benali has warned the likes of David Moyes’ West Ham United that Southampton ‘won’t sell’ players like James Ward-Prowse if prices aren’t met.
The Southampton legend used Tino Livramento as an example and his rumoured transfer to Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United – the English right-back is pushing towards a possible £32 million transfer to St James Park (Sky Sports).
If that deal goes through for Newcastle, then it hasn’t been easy, with the Saints, who were relegated to the Championship last season, ensuring that they get top dollar for their players.
The same could happen with James Ward-Prowse, who was described as a ‘fantastic pro’ by Benali, amid rumoured interest from David Moyes’ West Ham, as he told Sky Sports.
The 28-year-old is getting on with his work and trying to put those wins on the board for the Saints – they beat Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 in their Championship opener on Friday night, with Ward-Prowse providing an assist for Che Adams’ late winner.
But can they keep hold of their star man? Well, Benali had a clear message for those interested.
“He is a fabulous pro,” said Benali. “We know his ability on the football pitch. What he does, covers more ground than any other player in the team and in the squad.
“He is a threat from set-pieces, clearly. But he is a great pro off the pitch. He has been at the club since a young boy.
“But, clearly, with relegation comes the fact that other teams in the Premier League will come around. Southampton are doing it well, we have seen it with Tino Livramento. If they aren’t prepared to accept an offer that isn’t right for the club, then they won’t sell.”
Ward-Prowse suits Moyes
Last summer, the Hammers secured the talents of Brazil’s rising star Lucas Paqueta.
Whilst he is an outstanding player in possession, with brilliant vision and an eye for goal, he doesn’t suit what Moyes looks for in a midfielder.
That’s why he took so long to settle in last season, before cooking during the final few months.
Someone like Ward-Prowse, if he moves to the London Stadium, would settle in a lot quicker because he has Premier League experience, his quality from set-pieces and that combative nature to his game, and with Declan Rice out of the door, West Ham need these type of players as soon as.
The post ’They won’t sell’: West Ham sent warning about possibly signing 'fantastic' player appeared first on HITC.
from HITC https://ift.tt/rLPiJmd
No comments: