It was late in the day but Nottingham Forest finally completed a deal to sign West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse close to the transfer deadline.
The player only signed for the Hammers 12 months ago for £30 million from Southampton. Last season he scored seven goals and claimed 11 assists but wasn’t in the plans of Julen Lopetegui for 2024/25.
Ward-Prowse hasn’t hung around at the London Stadium to see if he can force his way into the team, however, and has instead signed for Forest on loan for the season.
The Reds moved quickly to get the deal sorted with Danilo now out until the New Year after requiring surgery on a broken ankle.
Forest announced Ward-Prowse just prior to the deadline. He won’t be available to play against Wolves tomorrow but should be in the squad after the international break.
Ross Wilson shares why Nottingham Forest wanted James Ward-Prowse
It’s fair to say that Ward-Prowse is a quality player when it comes to free-kick taking but that isn’t where the quality ends.
Suggesting as much would be harsh on Ward-Prowse who has played 11 times for England and will be hoping that some strong performances at Forest can get back into that reckoning.
After checking in, Wilson spoke to the club’s official website. He’s known Ward-Prowse for a long time stretching back to his time at Southampton and shared why the club chose to sign him.
He told the club’s official website: “We’re thrilled to welcome James Ward-Prowse to Nottingham Forest.
“Everyone is familiar with James’ talent in the Premier League, along with his strong leadership and personal qualities.
He is someone I’ve known for a long time, and as soon as the opportunity to bring James here arose, Nuno and our ownership moved quickly.
“We’re confident he’ll make an immediate impact both on and off the pitch, and we look forward to him joining up with the squad.”
Ward-Prowse could become fan favourite at Forest
It’s hard to imagine too many supporters being disgruntled at this. Ward-Prowse is as honest as the day is long and he’s a model professional who takes pride in his game.
The Reds needed another midfield player with Danilo picking up an injury. Now, Ward-Prowse strengthens that position and he should prove to be a very useful signing.
It’s perhaps surprising that West Ham have let him go after just 12 months. However, their loss is Forest’s game and hopefully, he can add even more creativity to the ranks.
Forest have recruited well this summer and now Ward-Prowse feels like the cherry on the top of the squad that has been assembled by Espirito Santo.
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