James Ward-Prowse turned down the opportunity to return to Southampton and a move to Everton in favour of a switch to Nottingham Forest. According to the report, they say that they gave James Ward-Prowse the option of who to go with and he has chosen the East Midlands club.
West Ham open to offers in order to recruit Soler
Sky Sports reported this morning that West Ham were open to offers for James Ward-Prowse, although were in no rush to sell him. It may be that they are keen to offload Ward-Prowse in favour of getting Carlos Soler from PSG. The 27-year-old could be seen as a more dynamic option, with his driving runs and impressive range of passing.
JWP rejects Saints’ return
If the reports are to be believed, Ward-Prowse rejected a return to Southampton. This is quite a statement, considering he spent 20 years at the club, 12 of those in the first team. After they were relegated in 2023, West Ham signed him for £30 million and he was a well-established member of the team, making 37 appearances last term, but has seemingly fallen out of favour with new manager Julen Lopetegui, having featured for just 16 minutes so far this season.
Forest looking for set-piece options
Forest’s struggles with defending set pieces are well documented, but incredibly they have yet to score a goal direct from a free kick since their return to the Premier League two years ago. Forest attacking set pieces have often left a lot to be desired and the signing of James Ward-Prowse instantly improves their options. A player of his ability and delivery would be valued at any club. He will also be hoping to break the Premier League free-kick record in his time at the City Ground. Ward-Prowse’s ability to play deeper may mean he is seen as a replacement for the injured Danilo, as it is unlikely he would get into their pacy forward line.