are the frontrunners to strike a deal for Flynn Downes following boss Russell Martin's decision to prioritise luring the star back to St Mary's on a permanent basis a matter of weeks after he played a crucial role in sealing promotion to the Premier League, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed. Saints ensured they returned to the top flight at the first time of asking thanks to recording a narrow win over Leeds United in the Championship play-off final last month, which is , and plans are being made to strengthen the squad. Adam Lallana has already rubber-stamped his return to Southampton after , having decided to walk away from Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of his deal, but Martin and director of football Rasmus Ankersen have turned their attentions towards making sure Downes heads back to the south coast in quickfire fashion.
Southampton remain in pole position to land Downes this summer, according to GMS sources, and the newly-promoted outfit are hopeful of tying up a deal in time for him to be on board before Martin's squad return to Staplewood for the opening stages of pre-season in the coming weeks. The central midfielder played a pivotal role in Saints escaping the Championship, with him as he became one of the first names on the team sheet during a productive loan spell, and they are desperate to have him on their books as preparations are made for the opening fixture of the campaign at Newcastle United. GMS sources have been informed that Southampton have been in to.