Former West Ham United midfielder Flynn Downes has explained his decision to depart East London this summer.
West Ham United decided to replace David Moyes this summer with former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Julen Lopetegui chosen to lead the Hammers.
The Hammers have already pulled off two excellent signings with the additions of Wolves defender Max Kilman, who played a lot under Lopetegui, and Palmeiras teenager Luis Guilherme.
This outlay will represent around £55 million spent by the East London club and because of the new profit and sustainability rules put in place, the Hammers will have to sell this summer.
Downes explains West Ham departure
One departure that was confirmed yesterday was that of English midfielder Flynn Downes who has joined newly promoted Southampton.
The 25-year-old spent last season on loan at Russell Martin’s side and has now opted to rejoin the club where he made 37 appearances for the club in 2023-24, scoring twice, as he helped them earn promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs.
Speaking to the club’s media channels, Downes explained his decision behind departing East London for the South Coast.
“Being a part of it last year, it was so good. The whole club, the people, I think everything about it is so special,” Downes said.
“I feel like when you connect with people like that, such genuine people, and I’m talking about the whole club here, it’s so hard not to want to be a part of that.
“Now I just feel like I can fully settle down here, try and get better, try and play my best football here and help the team be a success.”
Martin’s excitement over signing of Downes
The English midfielder moves to the St Mary’s Stadium on a four-year deal and manager Martin will be hoping he makes a key impact and the former Swansea City boss is clearly a big fan of his.
“He was such an influential player for us last season, both on and off the pitch,” Martin said. “He’s a brilliant character, he’s aggressive and physical in his play, technically excellent with the ball and a fantastic athlete too.”
With the signing of promising teenager Guilherme from Palmeiras, it is hard to see where Downes would have fit in at West Ham, so a permanent move away may not be the worst option.
Downes was once tipped by Darren Ambrose to replace Declan Rice in the midfield for the Hammers but that never materialised.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
