Southampton talks begin over permanent Flynn Downes transfer from West Ham United
Southampton are keen to secure the permanent signing of West Ham United loanee Flynn Downes this summer, according to Give Me Sport.
The report [21 May] details the midfielder is high on Saints’ list of priorities irrespective of their fate in the Championship play-off final agains Leeds United this weekend.
Downes has made 35 league appearances this season and played a vital cog in Russell Martin’s system, since arriving on loan last August as part of the deal to bring James Ward-Prowse to London Stadium.
Southampton manager Martin has been in discussions with director of football Rasmus Ankersen to ensure Downes does not depart.
The midfielder will know he’ll get regular football at St Mary’s whilst Julen Lopetegui, Tim Steidten and his team recruit in order to elevate West Ham to top-six recognition.
Flynn Downes’ long-term West Ham future is uncertain
Downes has fit seamlessly into the Southampton side, and has proven over years he is equipped with excellent attributes in the Championship as he aims for a play-off winners’ medal.
The midfielder is understandably open to leaving East London behind and making the move permanent, having struck up a great rapport with Martin and the Southampton fans.
A boyhood West Ham fan, Downes made 35 appearances in all competitions in a trophy-decorated Hammers side under David Moyes last season, which shows how much his desire to stay on the South Coast is genuine.
Following the departure of the man who brought him ‘home’, Downes is possibly anticipating fewer opportunities under Lopetegui and can carve out a longer-term Premier League career should Saints get over the line against Leeds on Sunday at Wembley.
In other West Ham news, a striker is expected to leave the London Stadium this summer.
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