Lopetegui must persuade Flynn Downes over West Ham United future as transfer stance emerges

Julen Lopetegui must persuade Flynn Downes to stay at West Ham this summer after the loan star made an admission over his future.

The 25-year-old has spent the season on loan with Southampton as the Championship club looks to secure promotion via the play-offs, becoming an integral part of Russell Martin's squad.

With 31 league starts as a key member at St Mary's Stadium, the midfielder returns to the London Stadium with much more experience and is set for a vital summer transfer window.

Following David Moyes' exit, Lopetegui is bound to bring a new slate to West Ham, which could provide Downes with a fresh start to be able to impress at the Premier League club.

However, the player has admitted that he would "love" to extend his stay with Southampton, which would become a very real possibility if they can gain promotion back to the top tier of English football.

It should come as no surprise to the Hammers fans though. Downes has thrived away from the London Stadium this season, with Andy Hinchcliffe dubbing him "absolutely outstanding" against Leeds United.

Julen Lopetegui must persuade Flynn Downes to stay with West Ham United

The midfield area is one that Lopetegui will be keen to strengthen once he arrives in London this summer, with Edson Alvarez the only natural defensive midfielder in the squad.

While James Ward-Prowse and Tomas Soucek are capable of deputising in the role, it is clear that their talents are of much more use further up the pitch rather than sitting in front of the defence.

Moyes was aware of his lack of depth, which saw Manchester City's Kalvin Philipps brought to the club on loan during the January transfer window. But with just three Premier League starts, the move never paid off.

Downes could be the perfect fit heading into the 2024/25 campaign. Following his loan exit last summer, though, it may take a lot of persuading to make him stay with the Hammers.

In other West Ham United news, one of Moyes’ family members is being cut loose by Lopetegui and Tim Steidten at the London Stadium.

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