Southampton make permanent transfer decision on West Ham United loan star Flynn Downes
Southampton will aim to sign Flynn Downes on a permanent transfer from West Ham in the summer, according to The Athletic.
The online source reported [2 March] that the Saints are intending on prioritising the permanent transfer of the 25-year-old midfielder, regardless of whether Premier League promotion is obtained.
It is understood that the initial season-long deal between the two clubs did not contain an option to buy, which the Hammers were reluctant about, but Southampton are now keen to keep Downes.
Do West Ham United need Flynn Downes?
The 25-year-old has been an ever-present for the Saints since arriving on loan from the London Stadium, starting 22 of their 34 league matches in, what looks to be, a promising season on the coast.
Downes’ loan spell is set to expire at the end of the season, but with David Moyes’ midfield already consisting of Edson Alvarez, Tomas Soucek and James Ward-Prowse, there is little room for Englishman.
West Ham could very much be facing Russell Martin and his Saints side next season, with the seaside club firmly in the playoff spots. 12 points ahead of next-placed West Bromwich Albion, it would take a massive change in form to see them drop out of contention.
Despite claiming victory in 20 of their 34 league matches so far, boasting one of the strongest attacks in the Championship this season, Leicester City, Leeds United and Ipswich Town have been on another level in the division.
Southampton could still claim promotion. But with the playoffs, anything could happen. Whether they reach the first division or not this season, it makes sense for both clubs for Downes to join on a permanent transfer.
It seems David Moyes has no future plans for the former Swansea City midfielder.
In other West Ham news, a Sky Sports pundit has blasted the Hammers fans after what they did to Moyes.
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