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West Ham midfielder Flynn Downes close to joining Southampton

West Ham United’s Flynn Downes is reportedly very close to joining Southampton. 

According to The Athletic, the Championship side have agreed a deal worth up to £18 million with the Hammers for the 25-year-old. 

A swap deal involving full-back Kyle Walker-Peters had been discussed between the two clubs, but the deal for Downes is said to be a straight fee. 

The defensive midfielder joined the Hammers in the summer of 2022 from Swansea City. 

He made 35 appearances in all competitions during his debut season, helping his side to Europa Conference League success. 

But the 25-year-old was sent on loan to Southampton last term, where he made 36 Championship appearances to play a key role in their return to the Premier League. 

Downes is highly rated by manager Russell Martin who wants to make him part of his plans for the next season. 

West Ham have already sold Thilo Kehrer and Said Benrahma, while Angelo Ogbonna and Ben Johnson have left the club at the end of their contracts last month.  

New boss Julen Lopetegui is looking to rebuild the squad as they aim to secure European football in 2024-25.  

The East Londoners recently completed the signing of Max Kilman in a deal worth a huge £40 million

Luis Guilherme arrived at the London Stadium last month, while Wes Foderingham joined on a free transfer. 

Stats from Transfermarkt 

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