Manchester United urged to sign ‘phenomenal’ midfielder Ward-Prowse

Manchester United have been told Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse ticks all the right boxes to solve their biggest transfer conundrum. United are poised to prioritise central midfield signings when they get down to business during the upcoming window.

Having missed out in that position last summer, Manchester Evening News understands the initial framework has been put together to try and sign Kalvin Phillips, while England teammate Declan Rice has long-since been viewed as a priority target. That is despite concerns West Ham will dig their heels in over his valuation amid other such complications as missing out on Champions League qualification.

Ward-Prowse has also been mooted as a possible alternative in that midfield search. The 27-year-old has enjoyed his most prolific campaign with Southampton, with Manchester City are also linked with a £75million transfer.

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Ward-Prowse is renowned for his set-piece skills, scoring 14 direct free-kicks over the course of his Premier League to date — which means he’s closing in on a record set by United great David Beckham (18). However, United and those other potential suitors have been told that is not the only string to his bow.

Speaking about Ward-Prowse on radio station talkSPORT, former teammate Charlie Austin said: “When I was there with him he played second fiddle to [Victor] Wanyama, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Jordy Clasie, Oriol Romeu and Steven Davis. Maybe he just took his time and cemented himself as club captain, but certainly now it’s time to leave.”

Austin added: “I think if he wants to go to the World Cup, he needs to be at a different football club [compared] to what Southampton are offering and how they are performing. I think he’s more appealing if he’s at a different club.

“He came through the academy and has been there for so many years. There hasn’t been the right opportunity.

“I think now is the time for him to move. His set-pieces and that are brilliant and he’s probably going to beat David Beckham’s record, but the nuts and bolts of his game, running hard, winning the ball back and leading the team are phenomenal.”

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