Shock Twist: James Ward-Prowse Transfer Saga Takes an Unexpected Turn, Breaking West Ham Hearts Right Before Championship Kick-Off!

West Ham have abandoned their pursuit of James Ward-Prowse from Southampton due to the exorbitant price demanded by the Championship side for their captain. Despite a previous £20m offer being dismissed, it was anticipated that the Hammers would make an improved bid.

However, the club is shifting its focus to other options in order to address the gap left by Declan Rice's departure to Arsenal for a hefty £105m fee last month. Southampton manager Russell Martin has acknowledged the possibility that the Saints may start their Championship season against Sheffield Wednesday, which will be televised this Friday, with several players who have been sold by the end of August.

West Ham's latest transfer headache comes after they saw a £40m bid for Chelsea and England midfielder Conor Gallagher rejected.

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West Ham's bid for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher was rejected

The 23-year-old has two remaining years on his Stamford Bridge contract, and there is a belief that Chelsea would be willing to prolong it.

After their initial bid was rejected, they have not made further attempts to secure Gallagher, and it is understood that they are hesitant to increase their offer at this point.

Fulham's Joao Palhinha remains a possibility, although his shoulder injury and Fulham's asking price have complicated the potential transfer.

Preliminary discussions with Manchester United suggest that a move for Scott McTominay could be beyond West Ham's financial capabilities.

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