Garth Crooks has suggested that a move for James Ward-Prowse would represent good business for Liverpool in light of their ongoing struggles in the middle of the park.
The Reds’ midfield has been hit hard by a mixture of injuries, COVID-19 cases and an AFCON absentee in Naby Keita, though has shown signs of recovering of late with Curtis Jones back in the squad and Harvey Elliott close to a full return to team training.
“How long are Liverpool going to wait to buy Ward-Prowse?” the BBC pundit told the broadcaster (as quoted by the Daily Echo). “They allowed Georginio Wijnaldum to leave on a free transfer and are struggling in that midfield department. Ward-Prowse would fit like a glove.”
As Southampton’s captain – not to forget either the obstacle provided by his long-term contract (expiring in 2026) – one might reasonably expect the Saints to put up heavy resistance were Jurgen Klopp’s men to express an interest in the 27-year-old.
The Englishman’s age is certainly another concern to take into account given our tendency to not veer too far from the ideal age range of 20-24 in our recruitment.
Described as a tactically and technically gifted player with defensive intelligence to boot, we can certainly appreciate why Ward-Prowse stands out as an option for Crooks.
Nonetheless, we just can’t look past the No.8’s age, particularly not unless Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men are prepared to accept a cut-price bid for their skipper’s services.
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