West Ham plot Flynn Downes U-turn - sources
West Ham could make a late-window decision on the future of midfielder Flynn Downes, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (28 May) that Julen Lopetegui is set to give Downes, 25, the chance to impress in pre-season.
However, West Ham are currently planning to add midfield reinforcements in the off-season as part of their transfer window plan.
As such, it is believed the Londoners could soften their stance on allowing Downes to depart permanently later in the summer.
He impressed on loan at Southampton this season after joining in the aftermath of James Ward-Prowse's move to the London Stadium.
West Ham plan midfield reinforcements - Downes could go
Sources say the Saints “would love” to sign the midfield star full-time this summer.
Lopetegui will assess his whole squad, including returning loanees and impressive youngsters, in pre-season after replacing David Moyes - who considered Downes surplus to requirements.
The former Swansea star, who played for Saints boss Russell Martin in Wales, made 37 appearances across all competitions for Southampton this term, starting in 35 of those outings.
His contract at West Ham runs until June 2027.
Downes cost the Irons a reported fee of £12million two years ago, but struggled for game time in the 2022-23 campaign.
He became a key man for Southampton as they were promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs.
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