Southampton want to keep 'world-class' £75m star at St Mary's

Southampton have no intentions of sanctioning James Ward-Prowse’s departure as they ‘want to keep him’ at St Mary’s, according to The Sun journalist Tom Barclay.

Ward-Prowse has gone on to make more than 360 appearances since coming through Saints’ ranks, but the midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from the south coast.

According to the Daily Mail, Southampton will tell their Premier League rivals that Ward-Prowse is not for sale ahead of the summer transfer window opening for business.

The report suggests Saints’ stance over the 10-cap England international has come amid interest from Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Spanish sources have claimed incoming Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to see Ward-Prowse join him at Old Trafford, while Manchester City have also set their sights on striking a deal.

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has issued a hands-off warning by insisting the 27-year-old ‘will stay’ at St Mary’s.

Saints are in a strong negotiating position as Ward-Prowse’s £100,000-per-week contract has more than four years remaining, so they are not in an immediate rush to cash-in.

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Barclay understands Southampton are not looking to part ways with Ward-Prowse amid widespread interest in their captain.

The journalist feels suitors would have to stump up a lucrative fee if they want to have any chance of altering Saints’ stance.

When asked whether a move could be on the cards, Barclay told GIVEMESPORT: “If that’s going to happen in any way, then the club buying him is going to have to spend a lot of money.

“There was a report recently in the Mail about how they don’t want to sell