😢 Russell Martin issues update on Southampton's pursuit of Flynn Downes | OneFootball

Southampton boss Russell Martin has admitted that he will cry himself to sleep if his side cannot sign Flynn Downes this summer, but admitted that the move may take time.

Downes was on loan at St Mary's from West Ham last season, making 33 Championship appearances and helping them secure promotion in the play-off final.

But so far, there has been no progress on a permanent move to the Saints, and now Martin has explained the current situation.

“Hopefully, before the end of the summer, he will be in a Southampton shirt," Martin told the Athletic.

"If he’s not, I will cry myself to sleep. It will take more time. We just have to be patient. I wanted him here last week, four weeks ago even.

"I hope, that at some point, we will show enough love and give West Ham enough money [for him].

Will he be on the south coast by the start of the new season?