West Ham United hold Kyle Walker-Peters transfer talks as Flynn Downes exit update emerges
West Ham United have held talks with Southampton over a deal which would see Kyle Walker-Peters join the Hammers, according to The Telegraph.
The outlet reported on its website on Friday (28 June) that the Irons have discussed a move which would see the England international head to the London Stadium and Flynn Downes head the other way on a permanent deal.
Southampton would likely also pay a fee for Downes even if Walker-Peters heads in the other direction, however, there is still a chance that the two deals could be completed and structured separately.
The versatile right-back is on Julen Lopetegui’s shopping list as he looks to mould his squad ahead of the start of his first season in charge in East London.
Will West Ham United sell Flynn Downes to Southampton in summer transfer window?
Although strengthening at the top end of the pitch was always going to be West Ham and Lopetegui’s number one priority this summer, the Hammers have needed to bolster their defence for several windows now.
Under David Moyes, the Irons finished the season incredibly poorly, particularly in defence where a number of players were slammed by pundits and fans alike for their miserable displays as they were repeatedly picked apart.
Most fans would have liked to see additions made at centre-back ahead of full-back, but Walker-Peters’ ability partnered with his versatility makes him an incredibly exciting option for the Irons as they look to rebuild under Lopetegui.
Losing Downes would be a shame as he has shown over the course of his loan spell on the south coast that he has something to offer at the highest level, but there is no guarantee he would even start regularly for the Hammers.
If he can be used to help West Ham get their hands on Walker-Peters, it may be a small price to pay to get the deal over the line.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have made contact over a move for Hull City star Jaden Philogene this summer
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