SAINTS loanee Flynn Downes is reportedly set for a chance to impress at parent club West Ham United next season.

The 25 year old midfielder has emerged as Southampton's most important player throughout the Championship campaign.

Downes will be key to manager Russell Martin's hopes of Saints winning promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs this month. 

Saints have only won two of the 10 league matches they have played without Downes since he signed for the club last summer. 

Martin admitted his importance when asked by the Daily Echo if signing him on for next season is the first job of the summer window. 

However, The Standard now report that Downes will be given a chance to impress Premier League West Ham in the upcoming pre-season. 

Downes made 35 appearances for his boyhood side during the 2022/23 season, following a permanent transfer from Martin's Swansea City.

Current West Ham boss David Moyes, who clearly does not favour the former Ipswich Town man, is set to depart the club.

The Hammers are expected to hire Spaniard Julen Lopetegui, who may have a different opinion of the reliable operator. 

The report does add that Downes could become a permanent transfer target for Saints if they are promoted back to the Premier League.

Downes is expected to start when Saints visit West Brom in the first leg of the Championship playoff semi-finals on Sunday, May 12.