Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse signs new five-year contract

After weeks of uncertainty and speculation, James Ward-Prowse has finally taken a decision on his future at Southampton.

The Saints’ captain has put pen to paper over a new deal and is now expected to stay put at the club long term.

James Ward-Prowse has seen his stock rise in the Premier League over recent years as he has gone all the way to become an England international.

Many expected the 26-year-old to leave this club this summer, but it appears that will not be happening.

New deal for Ward-Prowse

If anyone is deserving of a new deal at Southampton, no one fits the bill more than James Ward-Prowse. Such has been his growth at the club that he quickly became the captain after showing his worth to the club on a consistent basis. He grew through the ranks at the club’s academy and always looked like he was destined for the top.

As per the Southampton website, Ward-Prowse has signed a new five-year deal with the club, one that could come with the possibility to extend for a further year.

There are no specifics regarding the actual details of his new contract, but many reports suggest the Southampton captain will see a significant increase in his weekly wages.

James Ward-Prowse was the subject of interest for Aston Villa, who made a £25m bid for the 26-year-old last month. However, Southampton quickly knocked back the offer, prompting Villa to instead turn their attention to Arsenal man Emile Smith Rowe.

What has been said

Speaking after signing his new contract, James Ward-Prowse revealed he was happy to have taken that decision as he approaches a new chapter of his career.

The 26-year-old admitted he was aware of interest from Aston Villa but opted to remain at the club as he agrees with their long-term project.

Should he see out the length of his new deal, it is more than guaranteed he will become a club legend already. As it stands, he has already racked over 300 appearances for the club and he is only the 28th player in the club’s history to do so.

Ward-Prowse remains a key figure for Southampton

It was easy to see why Southampton went all out to keep their captain. Having been at the club since he was eight, he is one that signifies good proceeds from the club’s academy. Furthermore, he has proven to be ‘Mr. Reliable’, having played two consecutive seasons of Premier League football without missing a single minute.

He has also built a reputation from free kicks and is already carving out a style for himself. For Southampton, keeping their captain at the club is a massive statement of intent in the rightction.