Hammers midfielder set for £15m exit
Southampton are reportedly keen on bringing Flynn Downes to St. Mary’s, regardless of whether they gain promotion this season. The on-loan Hammer has been such a hit on the South Coast that boss Russell Martin has instructed club officials to finalise the deal.
Downes was sent out on loan to Southampton after being deemed surplus to requirements by manager David Moyes. A player of Downes’ calibre would have been particularly useful to the club at the moment, given Edson Alvarez’s suspension and Kalvin Phillips’ poor form.
The Saints have fallen behind in the battle for a top-two spot in recent weeks but could still fight their way back into contention with a strong end to the season.
Hammers midfielder Downes is set for a £15m exit to Southampton
Last summer, Flynn Downes reunited with Martin at Southampton, joining the club on loan from West Ham. Their prior collaboration at Swansea City set the stage for this reunion.
Throughout the season, the midfielder has been in decent form, proving to be a valuable addition to The Saints squad.
The Athletic reports that Southampton are eager to retain the services of the 25-year-old beyond the current campaign. Although no option to buy clause was included in the loan agreement with West Ham, Southampton intends to initiate discussions regarding a permanent transfer once the season concludes.
A highly places Hammers source recently told Claret & Hugh founder Hughie Southon that the club were open to bids for Downes.