Arsenal transfer boost as West Ham line up England star to replace Declan Rice
WEST HAM are reportedly looking to sign James Ward-Prowse as they prepare for the post Declan Rice era.
Rice is Arsenal’s number one target as they look to strengthen their midfield this summer.
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The Hammers captain has one year left on his contract at the end of the season, but the East Londoners have an option for a further 12-month extension.
According to the defaultWest Ham are looking to capitalize on Southampton’s relegation by getting rid of their captain, Ward-Prowse.
They add that coach David Moyes is a big fan of the 28-year-old set piece specialist.
West Ham, coming to terms with losing Rice in a mega-deal, want a reputable replacement for their hometown star.
They will target more than one midfielder, knowing it will be a tough task to fill the void left by Rice.
The Hammers considered a move for Ward-Prowse last summer, only to opt for Flynn Downes instead.
Ward-Prowse has managed to score eight goals in 36 Prem games this season despite his side’s poor performance.
The Portsmouth-born star joined the Saints at the age of eight and has played 407 games for them in total.
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He also played eleven caps for England under Gareth Southgate.
Moyes, 60, admitted last week the Hammers could lose £120million-rated Rice this summer.
He said: “We really hope Dec stays, that’s the biggest thing.”
“We’d love for him to be a West Ham player but we’re aware that might not be the case. That’s one of the scenarios.”
“We plan to have Dec here, but we’re also fully aware that there’s a good chance we don’t have him.”
Aside from Arsenal, Rice is also associated with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United.
The Gunners are expected to open up a midfield spot, with Granit Xhaka on the verge of a move to Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
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