Southampton summer signing Damion Downs is all set to join Bundesliga club Hamburg until the end of the season, with a €10m fee available to be paid on conclusion of the season. The American international, who has struggled so far this season since joining the Saints in a £7m deal from FC Köln in July, […]
Southampton summer signing Damion Downs is all set to join Bundesliga club Hamburg until the end of the season, with a €10m fee available to be paid on conclusion of the season.
The American international, who has struggled so far this season since joining the Saints in a £7m deal from FC Köln in July, has pushed for a loan back to Germany in the hopes of regaining some form.
Downs has struggled to adapt to life in England, having played 11 matches and failed to register a goal.
From being signed as the future of Southampton’s frontline, to sitting at the bottom of the pecking order at St Mary’s, the American wants to salvage his hopes of making the USMNT for this summer’s World Cup.
A loan move back to a country that he has thrived in in his short career is naturally a smart move for the 21-year-old.
As reported by The Athletic in December, Downs will not be allowed to leave, even on loan, unless Southampton can first find a replacement.
The fact that Southampton are willing to let Downs go suggests that the Hampshire club are set to sign a replacement striker this month.
Tonda Eckert’s side is in desperate need of a centre forward with goal-scoring nous.
Southampton Sporting Director Johannes Spors, who led the signing of Downs, has stayed full of confidence in the American:
“I’m still convinced that he has all the qualities & the character. We see it in training more than in the games, & he’s a hard-working guy who really wants to show that he has it, & I believe he does.”
Spors will not want to count out his big-money signing so soon, and a loan move for the young man to rediscover some confidence could be important for his development.
Southampton manager Tonda Eckert on Damion Downs:
“He’s a great bloke. He’s leaving everything on the training pitch every day. I think in the games, he just needs that one moment.
I see great potential in him as a great striker, I’m sure he will get up and running.”
