West Ham’s new Flynn Downes plan revealed after Southampton update – sources
West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui is set to give Flynn Downes the chance to impress in pre-season, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed the new Irons boss is open to letting the 25-year-old stamp his mark on his plans for the 2024-25 campaign.
Downes spent this season on loan at Southampton and was key in their successful promotion campaign, which was capped off with a 1-0 play-off final win over Leeds on Sunday (26 May).
Sources say the Saints “would love” to sign the midfield star permanently this summer, reuniting him with Russell Martin – who also worked with him at Swansea.
Downes was considered surplus to requirements under former West Ham boss David Moyes, but Lopetegui has since taken the hot seat at the London Stadium.
The appointment could hand the boyhood Irons fan a reprieve in his bid to nail down a regular first-team place.
West Ham star Downes set for fresh start under Lopetegui
Lopetegui will assess his whole squad, including returning loanees and impressive youngsters, in pre-season.
Downes made 37 appearances across all competitions for Southampton this term, starting in 35 of those outings.
He notched two goals and three assists as Martin’s side secured promotion via the playoffs.
The 25-year-old joined West Ham from Swansea in 2022 for a reported fee of £12million, but struggled for game time in the 2022-23 campaign.
His contract at the London Stadium runs until June 2027.
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