Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse would be a “huge signing” for West Ham, according to journalist Paul Brown.

The Hammers have been linked with the England international, along with the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle in recent months, and Brown feels he would make a massive impact at the London Stadium:

“Signing Ward-Prowse would be a massive statement of intent for West Ham. I think it’d be a huge signing, very good for them. He’d fit there, he’d do well for Moyes and I think he could be a transformational kind of player for West Ham.”

While West Ham are very keen on doing a deal for Ward-Prowse, the player’s asking price is likely to be a massive stumbling block. Reports suggest that Southampton are now holding out for around £70m to sell the 27-year-old.

It seems very unlikely that Irons boss David Moyes would have the funds to finance the move so the focus may well be on offloading unwanted players to raise the money required.

Nikola Vlasic is someone who is believed to be available for transfer, while there are some suggestions that the club would be open to selling Said Benrahma as well. If players do depart, it could pave the way for a bid to be made for Ward-Prowse later in the summer.