Ipswich surely regret letting their “monstrous” star leave, as his value has surged by 1100%.

Ipswich Town have navigated the Premier League relatively well this season, with Kieran McKenna’s team remaining unbeaten since their loss to Manchester City in late August. Despite this, the Tractor Boys are still without a league win, having secured three consecutive draws. Most recently, Sam Morsy’s last-minute goal against Southampton earned them a dramatic point.

While Morsy excelled for Ipswich, Southampton’s Flynn Downes, once an Ipswich player, was in midfield for the Saints. Downes never fully reached his potential during his time at Portman Road but has since blossomed after leaving his boyhood club.

Flynn Downes’ time at Ipswich
Downes, now a key player for Southampton, originally came through Ipswich’s academy but failed to make a lasting impression.

He made 99 appearances for the Tractor Boys, scoring three goals and providing four assists before moving to Swansea City in 2021 for a modest £1.5m.

🙌 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗼 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗲𝘀 🦢

Swansea City has completed the signing of Flynn Downes from @IpswichTown for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance.

👉 https://t.co/X6ajHtANZe pic.twitter.com/3thkDhgwtx

— Swansea City AFC (@SwansOfficial) August 10, 2021

Under the guidance of then-Swansea manager Russell Martin, Downes developed into a more polished midfielder. Ipswich likely regret letting him go, as he’s become crucial for Martin’s Southampton side in the Premier League. The Saints had to pay significantly more than £1.5m to bring him from West Ham this summer.

Downes’ transfer value in 2024
Southampton secured Downes permanently for a hefty £18m, a huge leap from his initial valuation. His performances helped the Saints achieve promotion in the 2023/24 season, delivering calm and controlled displays in crucial matches.

Downes continues to impress in the Premier League, showing his class despite Southampton’s struggles. He’s been praised for his physicality and composure on the ball, earning compliments from his manager. Ipswich may now regret not holding on to their academy product, as Downes has proven to be a top talent, far exceeding his original price tag.