Report: Aston Villa eye move for Southampton star James Ward-Prowse

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Aston Villa are set to make an astonishing move for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse, the Guardian reports.

The Villans are ramping up their attempts to sign new players. Yesterday, they agreed a club record deal for Norwich playmaker Emi Buendia.

Now, Dean Smith has turned his attentions to the engine room and a move for the Saints star.

The 26-year-old will hope to force his way into England’s squad for the European Championships ahead of the tournament getting underway.

He is on the reserve list and is vying for a place after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury.

Ward-Prowse is on the back of a stunning campaign with Southampton. He fired nine goals and registered seven assists for his team, despite a season of struggle.

The Saints man scored five direct free-kicks during 2020/21 and is renowned as a dead-ball specialist in the Premier League.

Losing their captain would be a devastating blow for Southampton but a huge coup for Villa.

Ward-Prowse has 269 Premier League appearances to his name and seven England caps.

The England man fits the profile of a Villa signing nicely. Smith opted to sign hungry British stars last summer and that paid dividends.

He earns £75,000-a-week at St Mary’s Stadium and would be an affordable option in that sense for Villa.

Ward-Prowse to Aston Villa: A deal that makes perfect sense

The midfielder has a contract until 2025 but it’s fair to say Villa have lofty ambitions that exceed those of Southampton.

Saints fans won’t want to hear it but Ward-Prowse looks destined to play for a bigger club during his career.

The man with seven caps for his country is a fine midfield player and is capable of weighing in with goal contributions.

His ability over a set piece is a joy to behold and Villa landing a player who fits their signing criteria looks like a good move for the club.