Ralph Hasenhuttl breaks silence on James Ward-Prowse amid Manchester United and Man City links

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has dismissed suggestions James Ward-Prowse could leave the club amid rumours linking him with a move to either Manchester United or Manchester City.

Speculation over Ward-Prowse’s future has grown in recent days, with both United and City rumoured to be set to battle it out for his signature. The Southampton captain has been tipped for a £75million move away from St Mary's.

United will prioritise the signing of at least one new midfielder this summer as Erik ten Hag arrives as the club’s new manager. With Nemanja Matic leaving and Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata all likely to follow him out of the door, United will be left light in an area that has needed bolstering.

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The Manchester Evening News understands initial efforts have already been made as the club lines up a deal for Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips. West Ham’s Declan Rice also remains a target, although the Hammers look set to dig their heels in over his valuation.

Ward-Prowse has now emerged as another potential option, with reports elsewhere suggesting United could make a move for the 27-year-old. City have also been linked, with Pep Guardiola having previously praised the England international.

However, Hasenhuttl wasn’t in the mood to entertain any interest in his captain as he was asked about the recent speculation ahead of his side’s clash with Brentford this weekend. “He has another four years contract here, he is happy here, he is our captain and he will stay here,” Hasenhuttl told reporters.

Ward-Prowse has enjoyed his most prolific season at Southampton, with the midfielder scoring 10 times in 39 appearances across all competitions.