James Ward-Prowse played under Nuno Espirito Santo on loan at Nottingham Forest last season, but it was not a successful time.
Ward-Prowse made just 10 appearances for Forest, without scoring, although he did make one assist.
The loan was terminated halfway through the campaign, and Ward-Prowse returned to West Ham United.
Nuno is West Ham's new manager, and one of his first decisions was to axe Ward-Prowse from the squad that played Everton in the Premier League on Monday night.
The Hammers earned a credible 1-1 draw at the Hill Dickinson Stadium to begin the Nuno era at the club.
Ward-Prowse does not appear to have a future at the London Stadium, so could drop down to the Championship.
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According to GiveMeSport, "Southampton are set to be among those interested in taking Ward-Prowse in the January transfer window as they bid for promotion from the Championship."
Is it time for James Ward-Prowse to return to Southampton?
Ward-Prowse was born in Portsmouth, but came through the academy of their local rivals, Southampton.
The midfielder went on to make over 400 appearances for the Saints and has been their Player of the Season on two occasions.
He left the club in 2023, following their relegation from the Premier League, and joined West Ham.
Southampton are currently 14th in the Championship, so they could do with a boost if they are to at least make the playoffs in the division this season.
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