Flynn Downes could be set to leave West Ham United
Flynn Downes could be set to leave West Ham United

Southampton eye West Ham United loanee Flynn Downes in double summer transfer

Harri Burton

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

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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.

West Ham
Flynn Downes could be set to quit West Ham United.

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.

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