There have been some bumps in the road for the Saints throughout the campaign, but they managed to make it count when it mattered, and they are now reaping the rewards.
Southampton now head into the summer transfer market as a top-flight team, meaning they may have more options to explore when it comes to signing and selling players.
One player who was a key part of their promotion success was midfielder Flynn Downes, and he will likely be someone manager Russell Martin would love to have at the club again next season, but there seem to be doubts about whether a deal may happen or not.
West Ham are prepared to wait before making Flynn Downes decision
Southampton signed Flynn Downes last summer on a season-long loan deal from Premier League side West Ham United.
The midfielder joined the Hammers the summer before but struggled to make a regular impact for the club in that single season.
So, it was decided he would spend the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Southampton, where he excelled. The midfielder played 37 times for the club in all competitions, scoring two goals and chipping in with three assists.
Downes started all but two games he was available for, so he was an important player in Martin’s team, and therefore, it is no surprise that reports state the Saints boss is keen to strike a deal over the summer.
The loan deal didn’t include a buy option, meaning if Southampton are to sign the player this summer, they will need to find a new agreement. However, according to the Evening Standard, West Ham are willing to wait before making a decision about his future at the club.