Southampton eye Flynn Downes reunion as West Ham open to summer deal, reports Give Me Sport.
Southampton are gearing up for their return to the Premier League next season, having recently triumphed in the Championship play-off final. Russell Martin’s team will once again compete in the top flight in the upcoming campaign.
The Saints had a slow start to the season, but once they found their rhythm, they dominated large parts of the campaign. They secured promotion with a narrow 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley, and now all eyes are on their preparations for the Premier League.
Flynn Downes, 25, spent last season on loan with Southampton, making 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice and assisting three goals. Although he played 35 games for West Ham after joining from Swansea City, his long-term future at the London club seems uncertain. New Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui was set to evaluate Downes before making a decision this summer.
Reports indicate that West Ham are willing to sell Downes, with Southampton interested in a permanent deal. If West Ham are ready to sell him so soon after his purchase, it suggests he may not get consistent game time if he stays in the capital. In contrast, at Southampton, he would likely be a regular starter, which is crucial for his development.
Downes was a key part of Martin’s setup last season, and his playing style aligns perfectly with the Saints’ objectives under their English manager. Southampton’s promotion should be enough to tempt Downes back to the club, but the question remains: how much will West Ham demand?
This transfer could become protracted, as other clubs are also monitoring the 25-year-old midfielder. This scenario gives West Ham more leverage in negotiations, allowing them to demand their preferred price. Southampton could find themselves in a lengthy bidding war that extends into the later stages of the transfer window.
Southampton need to be strategic and have a backup plan if a deal for Downes proves challenging to finalize. However, Downes’ previous year at St Mary’s might give Southampton an advantage in negotiations this summer.