West Ham have finalized the sale of midfielder Flynn Downes to Premier League rivals Southampton for a reported fee of around £18 million.
The 25-year-old, who spent last season on loan at St. Mary’s Stadium, was instrumental in Russell Martin’s play-off-winning team. Downes made 37 appearances across all competitions for the Saints, and re-signing him became a top priority for the club this transfer window. Martin praised Downes’ impact, calling it ‘monstrous’ last season.
Downes joined West Ham from Swansea City in 2022 and is a product of the Ipswich Town youth academy. He made 35 appearances for the Hammers and was part of the squad that won the Europa Conference League in 2023.
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth announced the news on social media platform X on Monday, stating: “BREAKING: Southampton have agreed a deal for the permanent signing of West Ham United midfielder Flynn Downes. Downes has been given permission to have a medical. He has been with the West Ham squad on their pre-season training camp in Austria.”
Downes is now set to return to the UK to complete his medical with Southampton, as the newly promoted side remains active in the transfer market.
His departure is the latest move by West Ham as they gear up for a new chapter under Julen Lopetegui. The Hammers have already secured Max Kilman from Wolves and Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras.
There have been rumors of a potential move for Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay to strengthen the midfield, though that deal may have fallen through with David Moyes’ departure.
Downes’ exit could increase the urgency to bolster the midfield, especially with Kalvin Phillips’ loan spell ending. However, West Ham’s next priority appears to be signing a striker.
