Southampton have reportedly told Aston Villa that midfielder James Ward-Prowse is not for sale, after the West Midlands club showed interest in the England international.
Villa have been keen to complete transfer business early in this window, having already confirmed the signing of Emiliano Buendia, and the club are looking to add more depth to their midfield.
The Saints captain has been a key figure for Ralph Hasenhuttl's side this season, and it is his ability at taking set pieces that has caught the eye of Dean Smith.
However, the Daily Mail reports that Southampton have no intention of letting Ward-Prowse, who came through the Saints academy, leave the club this summer.
Ward-Prowse signed a new five-year deal at St Mary's last summer and his value to Southampton is demonstrated by the captain playing every minute in the Premier League this season.
Having made his first-team debut in 2011, Ward-Prowse has since made 322 appearances for Southampton and earned the captain's armband in 2020.
Sammy Wynne
