JUST IN:Southampto Are Seriously Interested in a £12 Million-valued Player…Read more
Southampton Eager to Add £12m Star to Roster: Saints Set Sights on £12m Talent in Upcoming Summer Transfer Window
Southampton’s return to the Premier League has led to the signing of Manchester City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis, with their promotion triggering a permanent move for their central defender. However, despite his impressive loan spell at St. Mary’s that contributed to their promotion, Flynn Downes is not yet part of their squad for next season. Dharmesh Sheth told GIVEMESPORT that Downes, a lifelong Hammer, will hope to secure a permanent move to Southampton. The former Swansea City player, who excelled in Russell Martin’s possession-focused system, helped the Saints comfortably qualify for the play-offs. With an increased transfer budget, Southampton is looking to strengthen their squad, and Sheth believes Downes will be considered during pre-season.
“Flynn Downes: Current Status at Southampton”
Downes joined Southampton on loan but is expected to return to West Ham.
After joining West Ham in July 2022, Downes made 35 appearances across all competitions and won the Europa Conference League with his boyhood club. However, the arrivals of Edson Alvarez, Mohammed Kudus, and James Ward-Prowse following Declan Rice’s departure pushed him down the squad hierarchy, leading to his loan move to Southampton, where he helped secure their promotion to the Premier League.
A video suggests Downes might return to the south coast if Southampton decides to pursue him. With Russell Martin initiating a chant encouraging fans to ‘sign him up,’ Downes is aware of the appreciation from his former manager and supporters, which could entice him to return if he struggles for playing time at West Ham.
Sheth: “West Ham Will Want to Evaluate”
Downes has already played in over 30 games for West Ham. In an exclusive interview with GIVEMESPORT, Sheth highlighted the possibility of Downes moving, fueled by the strong support of his loan manager, Russell Martin. However, West Ham will want to evaluate Downes, who could be a valuable squad player for them. Sheth stated:
“Southampton definitely want him to stay. During the celebration after the play-off final, Russell Martin, the Southampton manager, was leading chants to ‘sign him up,’ which gives Downes a chance to consider his future.
“But West Ham United will also want to assess him. They are in a favorable position since he’s under contract, performed exceptionally well during his loan, and was crucial in helping Southampton achieve promotion to the Premier League.”
“Downes Must Be Given First-Team Opportunities”
Downes, who joined the Hammers for around £12 million, might find it challenging to compete for a spot against players like James Ward-Prowse, Edson Alvarez, and Tomas Soucek in the deep-lying positions. However, with a season spanning at least 40 games, he could still get opportunities to start a few matches.
Having had a strong season in the Championship, Downes is well-regarded at Southampton. If he isn’t given first-team chances by the end of the transfer window, he might return to St. Mary’s to secure his place at the top level.
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