James Ward-Prowse lined up for immediate Prem return as club enters race

FULHAM are keen on signing Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse this summer, according to reports.

The Saints skipper was relegated to the Championship last term as his side finished bottom with just 25 points.

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Since his side’s demotion, Ward-Prowse, 28, has attracted plenty of interest from top-flight clubs.

West Ham have been linked with the England international.

And according to the Independent, Fulham have now entered the mix.

The Cottagers find themselves in a line of transfer dominoes this summer.

Manchester City and Arsenal are chasing West Ham ace Declan Rice, who is expected to leave East London in the coming weeks.

When Rice goes, the Hammers are expected to move for Fulham ace Joao Palhinha.

In the event that the Portuguese international leaves Craven Cottage, Fulham could then swoop for Ward-Prowse.

With the 11-cap ace having three years remaining on his deal at St Mary’s, Southampton are likely to demand close to £30million for their star man.

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Set-piece specialist Ward-Prowse could link up again with fellow Saints academy graduate Harrison Reed at Fulham.

Ward-Prowse joined Southampton in 2003 aged eight, going on to make 409 appearances for the South Coast side.

He bagged 11 goals from midfield last term despite Saints’ poor season, while he also laid on five assists.

Southampton are also receiving plenty of interest for wonderkid midfielder Romeo Lavia.

The youngster has been strongly linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, and could leave before Saints begin their Championship campaign.

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