Liverpool have been urged to capitalise on Southampton’s relegation by signing James Ward-Prowse as a replacement for James Milner.
The Saints were relegated on Saturday following a defeat to Fulham.
Ward-Prowse has been captain of the Saints in recent years and he’s maintained a spot in the set-up, even when the club’s position in the has been under threat.
Milner has agreed personal terms with Brighton over a move to the south coast at the end of the season.
The veteran’s contract is up at Anfield and he wants to boost his chances of first-team football, having seen his minutes reduced this term.
Jurgen Klopp is expected to spend big on revamping his midfield this summer, with Mason Mount, Declan Rice and Alexis Mac Allister all targets.
But Richards believes Ward-Prowse would be a sensible, cut-price alternative to those names.
‘James Ward-Prowse will be low today. I have been in the situation as a captain when your club are relegated and the responsibility you feel is immense,’ Richards told the Daily Mail.
‘It is not something you get over easily and he certainly will not be putting himself first.
‘But we have to be honest: he is a saleable asset for Southampton and plenty of clubs will be keen on him.
‘He will be a smart buy for someone and it would not be the worst decision in the world if Liverpool, who need a replacement for James Milner, or Newcastle tested the water when the window opens.’
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