Flynn Downes (L) in action against Leeds United (Getty Images)
According to a report from TWTD, West Ham have scouted Ipswich Town midfielder Flynn Downes on numerous occasions this season.
Flynn Downes, 21, has been a bright spark for Ipswich Town in an otherwise disappointing campaign in Football League One following their relegation from the Championship last season. He has racked up two goals and two assists in 32 appearances in all competitions for the Tractor Boys.
Town boss Paul Lambert has admitted that Downes could be sold this summer if a substantial offer is made for his services, as quoted by TWTD. That being said, West Ham must attempt to sign the 21-year-old midfielder this summer.
The Hammers are 16th in the table and have shown very little signs of improvement under the tutelage of David Moyes. In order to boost their hopes of survival, Moyes signed the likes of Tomas Soucek, Darren Randolph and Jarrod Bowen in January.
Overall, the East London outfit have a few areas that must be strengthened over the summer. Even after the signing of Tomas Soucek, West Ham do lack quality in the midfield department.
Declan Rice has performed well over the past 18 months, but he needs a reliable player alongside him. Mark Noble is 32 and has entered the twilight of his career, while Jack Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez haven’t justified their inclusion since arriving at the club in the summer of 2018.
Not to forget, the Hammers sold Pedro Obiang to Sassuolo in the summer but didn’t replace him. It’s clear that without a solid midfield, Moyes’ side will continue to struggle. Thus, the Scotsman should do everything possible to sign Flynn Downes from Ipswich Town.
Downes has arguably been Town’s best player this season, impressing in Paul Lambert’s midfield. He has been a consistent presence in the club’s midfield over the last two seasons and possesses the qualities to thrive in the Premier League. The fact that Downes is young and talented (as evident from his displays in the Football League One) gives West Ham the option to consider him as a future prospect.
The former England Under-21 international has a lot of room for improvement and can take his game to the next level under the guidance of Moyes. He would certainly add quality as well as depth to the Hammers midfield next season.
Downes is clearly a very exciting talent and if West Ham are impressed with his displays in Ipswich Town colours, they must definitely test the League One club’s resolve in the summer with an offer for the midfielder.
