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Liverpool 'tempted' to sign relegated midfielder but Jurgen Klopp set on half-price deal
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is looking to keep the ball rolling after bringing Alexis Mac Allister to Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp reviews Liverpool's 4-4 draw with Southampton
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is reportedly seeking a hefty discount on James Ward-Prowse. The Southampton midfielder is expected to move on after suffering relegation from the Premier League, but the Reds are seemingly determined not to pay over the odds for his signature.
Having risen through the ranks with Southampton's academy, Ward-Prowse has been a one-club man since breaking through in 2011. Now 28 years old and with over 400 appearances under his belt, the classy midfielder is expected to move on this summer.
Liverpool are among those interested, but the Saints' eye-watering £50million price tag could put the brakes on any potential deal. According to The Daily Mail, Klopp and co are 'tempted' to lodge a bid for half of that amount - £25m.
And there is a general feeling that Southampton will have to slash their asking price as the summer drags on, with Ward-Prowse in need of a move if he is to remain in the top flight.
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After an entertaining 4-4 draw with Liverpool on the final day of the season, Ward-Prowse strongly suggested that his time at St Mary's could be over. "This is a club that’s meant a lot to me," he told the club's official website.
"I’ve been here for 20 years now and had a fantastic journey and enjoyed every minute of it, and you never know what’s going to happen in the future. I come away from this season with my head held high knowing that I’ve done everything I can for this club, not only this year but ever since I came through the door as an eight-year-old."
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Newcastle United and West Ham are also reported to be in the hunt for Ward-Prowse, who has 11 England caps on his CV. Aston Villa saw a £25m offer rejected last year as Southampton opted to keep hold of their star player for the relegation battle that lay ahead.
The club's subsequent relegation is likely to make Ward-Prowse one of the more affordable top-class midfielders on the summer market. Liverpool have already conducted major business by signing Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton.
But Klopp is set to keep his foot on the gas, particularly in terms of midfield recruitment as a host of players prepare to leave Anfield.
Arthur Melo has returned to Juventus after his dismal loan spell, Naby Keita has joined Werder Bremen as a free agent, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner are seeking out their next challenges at club level.