Southampton eye West Ham United loanee Flynn Downes in double summer transfer
Southampton are pursuing the permanent signing of West Ham loanee Flynn Downes as part of a double transfer this summer, according to The Southern Daily Echo.
The newspaper reported via its website on Sunday (26 May) that the Saints are hoping to sign both Downes and Newcastle United’s Ryan Fraser after the club secured Premier League promotion.
Both players starred as Southampton beat Leeds United 1-0 in the Championship play-off final on Sunday 26 May, having played important roles for the club all season.
Southampton to sign West Ham United loanee Flynn Downes on permanent deal?
With Julen Lopetegui’s appointment at the London Stadium this summer, it seems that Downes has an opportunity to impress and grab a spot in the Hammers squad.
However, having become an integral part of Russell Martin’s team this season, playing every single minute of the Saints’ play-off matches against West Brom and Leeds, he may choose against staying in London.
The player has admitted that he would “love” to extend his stay at St Mary’s Stadium, though it is unclear whether he is looking for a permanent move or just another loan spell away from West Ham.
The midfielder was forced out on loan last summer despite a positive first season at the London Stadium, with Edson Alvarez, Tomas Soucek and James Ward-Prowse likely meaning his minutes would have declined.
It would have been a kick in the teeth when the club decided to loan Kalvin Philipps during the January transfer window, especially with Downes’ services clearly not needed. Though, his career at the London Stadium did not work out, to say the least.
The 25-year-old will have a difficult choice to make soon. But for now, he will be able to enjoy the feeling of promotion to the Premier League and decide on his future at some point this summer.
In other West Ham news, McAvennie blasted the Hammers for being ‘on the beach’ against Manchester City.
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