Southampton and manager Russell Martin have now been told their chances of keeping star midfielder Flynn Downes beyond this season.
Downes joined Saints on loan for the season back in the summer transfer window, as part of the deal that saw James Ward-Prowse head to West Ham for £30 million.
He has been exceptional for Saints in their midfield, making eleven appearances so far in the Championship, with one assist.
Saints likely to lose star midfielder in the summer
According to Claret & Hugh, Downes ‘looks certain’ to be heading back to East London at the end of the season.
This is due to the Hammers reportedly needing to buy homegrown players to fill their quota for next season, and Downes would help fulfil that.
Losing Downes would be a huge blow
This is certainly not good news for Martin.
Although he endured a tough start to life at St Mary’s, Downes has really started to demonstrate the qualities he possesses at Championship level.
He’s no stranger to the division having enjoyed spells with the likes of Ipswich Town and Swansea City, but he’s taken his game to a different level at the Saints.
The 24-year-old may only be on loan at the club, but he’s starting to become a real spearhead in the dressing room and showing great leadership skills – setting a great example to the youngsters in the squad.
He has been praised for his performances by the manager, with Martin saying he was ‘monstrous’ in the 3-1 win over Birmingham City just over a week ago.
He will be no stranger to West Ham though if and when he returns, making nine appearances as they won the Europa Conference League last season.