Southampton demand £40m for Ward-Prowse transfer as West Ham lead chase for record-breaking midfielder

SOUTHAMPTON are hoping to land up to £40million for captain James Ward-Prowse this summer despite their relegation.

The Saints see Ward-Prowse, 28, as one of their few chances to receive a big fee during the transfer window as they look to fund a rebuild in the summer.

GettyJames Ward-Prowse may have played his last game for Southampton[/caption]

Fellow midfielder Romeo Lavia, a target for Liverpool, will also command big money, but there are few others who match their value.

Despite dropping to the Championship, Ward-Prowse still has three years left on his deal and will be in demand this summer, leading to Southampton’s optimistic valuation.

West Ham have long tracked the England midfielder and are keen to add Fulham’s Joao Palhinha alongside him as they look to replace Declan Rice, a target for Arsenal and Manchester United.

Despite the Ward-Prowse’s age, suitors still feel there is a potential resale value in any deal given his goal and assist record as well as his set-piece ability.

A goal on Sunday took his Premier League tally for the season to nine goals, with four assists.

Ward-Prowse also created more chances than any other English midfielder in the Prem this season with 74.

No talks have been held between Ward-Prowse and interested clubs at this stage, with the Saints academy graduate planning some time away following his final Southampton game against Liverpool on Sunday.

He scored Southampton’s first goal in the thrilling 4-4 draw before receiving a standing ovation when substituted with four minutes to play.

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Asked about that moment and whether it was his goodbye, Ward-Prowse said: “It is nice of course, this is a club that has meant a lot to me.

“I’ve been here for 20 years and had a fantastic journey, I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.

“You never know what is going to happen in the future.

“I come away this season with my head held high knowing I’ve done everything I can for this club, not only this year but ever since I came through the door as an eight year old.

“To play a part in not maintaining that Premier League status hurts me but I’m sure this club will be back in the future.”

Southampton have confirmed the appointments of Darren Mowbray as head of recruitment and Mark Bitcon as director of performance.