Southampton midfielder waiting to appoint a manager before next steps
Southampton midfielder waiting to appoint
Southampton midfielder waiting to appoint a manager before next steps
NEWCASTLE United are reportedly interested in Saints trio Kyle Walker-Peters, Romeo Lavia and James Ward-Prowse as they prepare for a Champions League return.
The Magpies qualified for Europe’s elite competition for the first time in over 20 years with a fourth-place finish in the Premier League last season.
Saints, meanwhile, are returning to the Championship having finished bottom of the table by six points – and face a potential exodus of their best players as a result.
The Telegraph have reported that Eddie Howe’s side are taking an interest in versatile defender Walker-Peters as well as midfield duo Ward-Prowse and Lavia.
Other relegated players such as Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes and James Maddison are also said to be on the shortlist with potential good value deals available.
The report details that captain Ward-Prowse is likely to be of less interest to Newcastle due to turning 29 years old later this year but having a £50million price tag over his head.
Sources have told the publication that prices being quoted to Newcastle are extremely high due to their known wealth following a Saudi-backed takeover.
The Telegraph adds that Walker-Peters, a two-time England international following his debut in March last year, has impressed Magpies staff in their recruitment meetings.
The fact he can play comfortably on both sides of the defence and is confident in attack is perfect for Howe’s playstyle, and they add he could be available for a fee of around £15million.
Newcastle are not the only club tracking Lavia, who would likely cost a fee more than £40million, after the former Manchester City youngster impressed in his first season.
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Saints are expected to be big spenders themselves this summer, while Sport Republic’s Rasmus Ankersen indicated his desire to keep hold of some players despite pressure.
He said: There will be some turnover because the squad is too big but there are some very talented football players in that group which we will be intending to keep.
