Kyle Walker-Peters has revealed that he’d ‘love to play with’ one Southampton loanee next season.
Summer transfer plans are on hold, at the moment, as Southampton‘s destiny is yet to be revealed, with their promotion hopes remaining in the balance.
Russell Martin‘s side still have an outside chance of finishing inside the top two and are in action this evening against Preston North End in a must-win game.
With that said, many of Southampton’s five loan players don’t know whether they’ll be staying next year, though, Walker-Peters hopes one can sign on a permanent basis.
Kyle Walker-Peters hopes Southampton sign Flynn Downes
Speaking to the Daily Echo, Saints full-back Walker-Peters admitted that he’d love West Ham United loanee Flynn Downes to stay next season after his match-winner against Watford on the weekend.
“He was there and he’s done it again for the team. He felt a bit disappointed with their second goal,” the 27-year-old said.
“So he’s probably given it his all there and thankfully he’s got the winner for us. He’s shown how much of a top player he is.
“He’s still young and whatever happens, I’d love to play with him next season. But that’s out of my hands.”
Walker-Peters continued: “It’s a really key position, especially in our team. The amount of demand on the number six on and off the ball is tough.
“He’s been excellent this season. So we’ll see what happens.”
Flynn Downes should be Southampton’s first signing if they go up
If Southampton do indeed gain promotion back to the Premier League, Downes must be the first signing made in the summer.
As Walker-Peters alluded to, he’s a crucial cog in Martin’s system and given he’s still only 25, there is still plenty of room for him to become even better.
Further, Downes has a Transfermarkt value of £5.9m, which if Saints were able to secure his services for a similar fee, would represent an absolute bargain.
GiveMeSport reported, back in December, that there is a good chance he signs for the South Coaters on a permanent deal, as West Ham are ‘starting to move beyond’ him.
The outlet also noted that Downes may start to feel Southampton is the best fit for him, given the style of play.