Liverpool targeting BARGAIN Mount alternative

Tom Hancock

• Updated: 11 Jun 2023 21:41 BST
• 3 min read

Liverpool are considering a move for Southampton skipper James Ward-Prowse, as they look set to lose out to Manchester United in the race for Mason Mount.

Ward-Prowse, 28, is among a number of prominent names who seem certain to leave the Saints following their relegation from the Premier League.

Indeed, FootballTransfers exclusively revealed last week that the midfielder is already on the radar of West Ham – who, like Liverpool, will be able to offer Europa League football next season, having just won the Europa Conference League.

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Southampton finished rock-bottom of the 2022/23 Premier League table – but Ward-Prowse continued to impress with performances in the middle of the park, with MailOnline claiming that Liverpool may swoop should he be available at the right price.

Not only did the England international move to within one of David Beckham’s all-time record for free-kicks scored in the Premier League, he also proved he’s absolutely no one-trick pony with his contributions from open play.

Ward-Prowse found the net 11 times in all competitions this term – the joint best return of his career – as well as providing five assists.

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Is Ward-Prowse worth a punt?

Having played in high-intensity pressing systems under the likes of Ralf Hasenhuttl and Ruben Selles, Ward-Prowse ought not to have too many difficulties getting to grips with Jurgen Klopp’s approach to that side of the game.

Whether or not he is at the level required for a team with Premier League title ambitions is up for debate – but he could be a hugely useful player for the Reds to have in their midfield rotation.

Our in-house Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) model currently rates Ward-Prowse at roughly £33.5m; Liverpool are said to be willing to pay around £25m.