WEST HAM are targeting a move for James Ward-Prowse as they prepare for life after Declan Rice, according to reports.
Rice is Arsenal’s key target as they aim to bolster their midfield this summer.
The Hammers skipper will have one year remaining on his contract come the end of the season, although the East Londoners possess an option to extend it by a further 12 months.
According to the Standard, West Ham are aiming to profit on Southampton’s relegation by prising away their captain Ward-Prowse.
They add that boss David Moyes is a huge fan of the 28-year-old set piece specialist.
West Ham, who are becoming more resigned to losing Rice in a megabucks deal, want a big name replacement for their homegrown star.
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They will target more than one midfielder, understanding that filling the hole vacated by Rice will be a difficult job.
The Hammers considered a swoop for Ward-Prowse last summer, only to pounce for Flynn Downes instead.
Ward-Prowse has managed to score eight goals in 36 Prem appearances this term, despite his side’s abject showing.
The Portsmouth-born ace joined Saints aged eight and has made 407 outings for them in total.
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He has also earned 11 England caps under Gareth Southgate.
Moyes, 60, last week admitted that the Hammers could lose £120million-rated Rice this summer.
He said: “We honestly hope Dec stays, that is the biggest thing.
“We would love him to be a West Ham player but we are aware that might not be the case. That is one of the scenarios.
“Our plans are to have Dec here but we are also fully aware there is a good chance that we don’t have him.”
In addition to Arsenal, Rice has also been linked with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United.
The Gunners are set to have a vacancy in midfield, with Granit Xhaka on the verge of joining Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
