Liverpool 'prepared to be patient in James Ward-Prowse pursuit'

Liverpool are reportedly prepared to be patient in their hunt for Southampton's James Ward-Prowse, with the Reds unwilling to pay the Saints' current asking price for the player.

The South Coast club's decade-long stay in the top flight came to an end this season as they were relegated to the Championship after finishing 20th in the Premier League.

Despite his team's struggles, Ward-Prowse has continued to impress - most notably with his set-piece ability - scoring nine times and providing four assists as an ever-present for the Saints.

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool are looking to wait until the end of the transfer window to secure the services of Ward-Prowse in the hope that they will be able to pay less.

It is understood that Southampton are demanding a fee of £50m for their captain this summer - an amount which Jurgen Klopp's side are not keen on paying.

The Merseyside club would be tempted to pay closer to £25m for Ward-Prowse, and are hopeful that the player's desperation to leave St Mary's - coupled with Southampton's desire to get the 28-year-old off their wage bill - will drive his price down.

The report adds that Newcastle United and West Ham United have registered their interest in the midfielder, meaning Liverpool have genuine competition in getting one of their main midfield targets.