x

Saints Unwilling to Sell Downes to Relegation Rival - Ipswich Town News

Southampton appear unwilling to allow former Blues midfielder Flynn Downes to join one of their relegation rivals before this evening’s 11pm deadline.

Downes, 26, joined the Saints from West Ham for an initial £15 million in the summer following a successful loan last season, but is now out of favour, with new manager Ivan Juric hinting at a fall out between the pair after Saturday’s game between the teams.

Town were also very interested during the close season but Downes opted to rejoin the Saints given his successful loan and relationship with then-boss Russell Martin, who departed in December.

Despite the apparent friction, we understand the Hampshire club are, as it stands, unwilling to sell to a rival in the Premier League relegation battle.

Whether a bid significantly in excess of the £15 million fee the Saints paid in the summer would change their minds - or would be offered before tonight’s deadline - remains to be seen.

Following Saturday’s 2-1 win at Portman Road, Southampton stayed bottom but are now seven points behind Town in 19th and 10 from safety.

Brentwood-born Downes started his career with the Blues, coming through the academy and making 99 appearances for the club before being sold to Swansea City during Paul Cook’s 2021 Demolition Man summer for an initial £1.5 million.

The former England U19 and U20 international moved on to West Ham, the club he supported as a boy, the following year for £9 million but was unable to establish himself in the East Londoners’ side and was loaned to Southampton for 2023/24, helping them to promotion back to the top flight via the play-offs and subsequently making the move permanent.

What to read next:

Morsy: The Best Spell of My Career and Life
Departing Town captain Sam Morsy has issued a message to fans, teammates, manager Kieran McKenna and his staff following confirmation of his move to Kuwait SC, while the squad and ex-players have paid their own tributes to the Egyptian international.
Town Confirm Morsy Exit For Kuwait SC
Town skipper Sam Morsy’s move to Kuwait SC has been confirmed.
Town Announce Matchday Ticket Prices
Town have confirmed their matchday ticket prices for the Championship season ahead.
Luongo Close to Joining Millwall
Former Blues midfielder Massimo Luongo is closing in on joining Millwall following his trial with the Lions.
Eze Nets Twice as U19s Draw Opener at Czech Tournament
Striker Nelson Eze scored twice as an U19 Town side drew 2-2 with hosts Banik Ostrava in their opening match at the Zlaty Kahan tournament in Czechia yesterday.
Young: Working With McKenna Again Was a Massive Pull
New Blues signing Ashley Young says manager Kieran McKenna played a big part in his decision to join Town having left Everton at the end of last season.
Town Confirm Young Signing
Town have confirmed the signing of veteran former England international Ashley Young on a one-year deal.
[Podcast] Blue Monday - New Podcast Now Online
A new podcast from the Blue Monday team is now available.
Released Forward Roberts Joins Stevenage
Released Blues U21s forward Matty Roberts has joined League One Stevenage following a trial.
Young Close to Completing Town Move
Veteran former England international Ashley Young is close to completing a move to the Blues on a one-year deal.