West Ham must start preparing themselves for the summer exit of Flynn Downes after the latest news coming out of Southampton.
It is well-documented that the Saints are keen on striking a permanent deal for the Hammers midfielder, having impressed during a season-long loan with the club.
The 25-year-old was a key part of Russell Martin’s squad that won promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs, and it also seems that the player would be open to staying with the Saints [Daily Echo, 13 May].
Southampton may have just made some room for Downes at St Mary’s Stadium, too, having announced their official retained list for the 2024/25 campaign. One of the players leaving is Adam Armstrong.
Although Downes and Armstrong are two very different players, the Saints are likely to be playing much more defensively next season as a newly promoted squad, giving the former an edge in the team.
Considering Southampton’s strong interest in the player, Julen Lopetegui may not get the chance to work with Downes before he leaves the London club permanently.
West Ham United to prepare for Flynn Downes exit
The 25-year-old made 31 league starts as the Saints secured promotion to the Premier League, becoming an integral cog in Martin’s wheel.
Despite a solid enough first season at London Stadium after transferring from Swansea City in July 2022, he was shipped out on loan by David Moyes, and the club may regret that decision now.
That was not the strangest decision, however. The move left Edson Alvarez as the sole pure defensive midfielder at Moyes’ disposal, causing Kalvin Phillips to be loaned in during the January transfer window.
The Manchester City man’s attempt to save his career was anything but successful, which could be looked at as a smack in the face for Downes.
The Hammers may need to start preparing for Downes’ exit if they haven’t done so already.
In other West Ham news, the Irons have outbid a double-winning club to get ahead for a new signing.