Andrew Musgrove believes that James Ward-Prowse would fit the bill perfectly for Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Newcastle to bolster their midfield

It was reported back in January that midfield was the priority position for Newcastle to improve, but instead, they ended up weakening that area by letting Jonjo Shelvey depart on a permanent transfer.

Therefore, Newcastle will very likely have to strengthen their midfield department come the summer, so finishing in a European place will help their recruitment drive.

The Magpies have been linked with a move for England international and Premier League stalwart Ward-Prowse, which could be a lot easier if Southampton are relegated this season.

The Latest: Ward-Prowse could improve the Magpies

Speaking on the Everything is Black and White podcast, Toon journalist John Gibson stated that Ward-Prowse could be the 'locksmith' that Newcastle need to go to the next level - and Musgrove couldn't agree more.

He said: "Newcastle have been linked with James Ward-Prowse. I think people on the podcast will know I'm a huge, huge fan of him. Only 28, dead-ball specialist.

"You said there that they need a locksmith, someone who can pick the pass without even thinking about it. For me, he fits that bill absolutely perfectly."

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The Verdict: Strength in depth will be key for Newcastle

While Newcastle have a solid core group of around 14 players, their lack of depth has certainly started to show in the second half of this season, with the Magpies winning just one league game in 2023.

Therefore, bringing in someone such as Ward-Prowse could allow Eddie Howe to have a choice of players for different sorts of games, although he would likely demand one of the bigger pay packets at the club, as he's already thought to be on £100,000 per week on the south coast.

If Newcastle are to qualify for Europe next season, they will need a far deeper squad to be playing twice a week for a lot of the season, and to have someone such as Ward-Prowse, who's come in for praise from Toon legend Alan Shearer in the past, would be a sign of Newcastle taking steps forward in their development under PIF and Howe.