Chelsea now want to sign James Ward-Prowse this summer after Southampton were relegated from the Premier League.
That is according to Football Transfers.
As Chelsea target a deal for Ward-Prowse, it is believed that Mauricio Pochettino‘s involvement in negotiations will be key.
What’s the story?
Well, the England international has already worked with the Argentine while he was in charge of Southampton, before leaving to join Tottenham in 2014.
Ward-Prowse made 46 appearances under Pochettino on the south coast, and now, they could reunite at Stamford Bridge.
Football Transfers believe Chelsea are battling Tottenham, Aston Villa and Newcastle for the 28-year-old’s signature.
Pochettino is described as being a huge fan of Ward-Prowse, and it was the South American who actually eased the freekick specialist into Southampton’s first-team in the Premier League when he was just a youngster.
Now captain of the Saints, it is looking more and more likely that the Portsmouth-born technician leaves St Mary’s after they dropped into the Championship.
Ward-Prowse would be a fine replacement for Mount at Chelsea
According to The Athletic, Mason Mount is leaning towards a move to Manchester United as he refuses to sign a new contract.
It seems the England international will leave Stamford Bridge this summer, and if that does turn out to be the case, Ward-Prowse has the ability to replace him at Chelsea.
Both of the England internationals are full of energy, while they are also excellent at dead-ball situations.
Ward-Prowse, who Oriol Romeu once described as an “unbelievable” footballer, would in fact be an upgrade on Mount from set-piece situations. He is widely regarded as one of, if not the best, in Europe at this particular skill.
The Southampton No.8 has scored 17 freekicks in the Premier League – only David Beckham has netted more with 18.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Pochettino’s relationship with Ward-Prowse could swing things in Chelsea’s favour.