Peterborough United forward Joe Ward is gaining interest from Championship duo Hull City and Birmingham City, according to TEAMtalk.
The 27-year-old’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and both reported teams, alongside clubs in England and Scotland, view Ward as one of the best-valued signings in the EFL.
Who is Joe Ward?
The winger joined Peterborough in 2018, where he made the jump up from non-league to League One. After taking a while to get in his groove, Ward came into his own during Posh’s promotion-winning season to the Championship in 2021.
Solidifying his place in the team, the Englishmen has gone on to be a playmaker on the wings, with 25 assists in the last three seasons. With nine of them coming this season, Ward has also found the back of the net six times as Peterborough makes a late push for the playoffs.
Can He Make The Step Up?
Ward has played his most impressive football in League One, however, did play a season in the Championship last year. In a campaign that saw Posh go straight back down, the versatile winger failed to score that season but was a regular contributor to the team.
Could Peterborough Be Attractive For Him Still?
While it is looking increasingly likely Ward will be on the move this summer, Peterborough could find itself getting promotion still. With one game left to play, two points separate Derby and United as they fight for the last playoff spot. The final day of the season should cause twists and turns, with both clubs set to play teams in the top-four
Writer’s View
With Ward being one of the EFL’s biggest free agents this season, it’s no surprise teams in the Championship are keeping tabs on him.
As the winger is coming off a great year, I think he can improve on his lone season in the Championship with what he’s learned. Things could get complicated though if Posh do pull off the unthinkable and gain promotion to the Championship. With over 200 appearances for the club and them moving up, it would be a difficult opportunity to turn down.
