Liverpool want Ward-Prowse...but not for €50m

Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse this summer - but are ready to bide their time to land the set-piece specialist. 

Ward-Prowse is primed to leave the relegated Saints, but the south club's £50million valuation of the 28-year-old midfielder is currently scaring off potential suitors, according to the Daily Mail. 

There is a sense that Southampton will be forced to lower their asking price nearer the end of the transfer window and Liverpool are currently the frontrunners for his signature despite interest from other clubs, such as Newcastle United and West Ham.

After bidding farewell to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner and Naby Keita - and dropping out of the race for Real Madrid-bound Jude Bellingham - Jurgen Klopp is keen to further beef up his midfield options having already landed World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton.

Liverpool are believed to be willing to secure Ward-Prowse for around £25million - and the discrepancy between their valuation of the player and Southampton's current asking price is likely to see transfer wranglings continue long into the summer. 

Ward-Prowse's contract with Southampton expires in 2026 and does not include a relegation clause.