Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has tipped Liverpool to make a move for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse this summer.
This comes as Aston Villa reportedly prepare to make a move for the 26-year-old Englishman should club captain Jack Grealish leave the Midlands club.
Saints’ captain Ward-Prowse has become an established Premier League performer over the years the Reds have certainty had a penchant for stripping the south coast before now.
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan suggested Jurgen Klopp should be in the hunt to sign the free-kick specialist.
Liverpool might fancy Ward-Prowse. He’s that kind of midfield player as well, especially when it comes to set-pieces as well. You’ve got to look at delivery, you’ve got to look at everything. He’s tenacious in midfield, he’s got that energy about him and is a player that would probably suit Liverpool as well.
Capped eight times by England, the versatile midfielder enjoyed a superb 2020/21 campaign, scoring eight and registering another seven assists in 38 Premier League outings.
Described as being possessing the ‘full package’ by manager Ralph Hasenhuttl, Ward-Prowse has made 269 top-flight appearances.
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Valued at £27million and under contract until 2025 at St Mary’s (Transfermarkt), signing the Southampton talisman would come at a cost.
However, should the ace harbour ambitions of playing UEFA Champions League football, perhaps there is a deal to be struck.
Predominantly a central midfielder, the Portsmouth-born star would act as a replacement for Gini Wijnaldum whilst also being capable of covering Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back should Neco Williams leave.
Perhaps the Reds could use Williams himself, or Saints loanee and outcast Red, Takumi Minamino in a deal for the Englishman.
One thing is for certain is that Ward-Prowse and Alexander-Arnold would be battling over who took the set pieces.
