Southampton’s failed attempt to sign Flynn Downes permanently from West Ham will have manager Russell Martin crying himself to sleep.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell at St Mary’s last season, where he helped the south coast team return to the Premier League via the play-offs.
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He contributed two goals and three assists in 37 games and quickly became a fan favorite.
The Pitch Prospect reported last month that Southampton and West Ham were negotiating a swap between Downes and right-back Kyle Walker-Peters.
However, an agreement has yet to be reached between the two teams, and Downes has returned to the Hammers for pre-season training.
And Martin has asked Saints chiefs to quickly negotiate a deal for the former Swansea star for his own good.
During a question-and-answer session with fans on Saturday, Martin was asked about the club’s recruitment efforts for the player.
He then said: “It will take more time. We just have to be patient. I wanted him here last week, four weeks ago in fact.”
“If someone belongs to another club and is a good player, they will always try to keep him.
“I hope that at some point we will show enough love and give West Ham enough money.
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“Hopefully he will be wearing a Southampton shirt before the end of the season. If not, I will cry myself to sleep.”
Downes, who won the Europa Conference League in his first season with West Ham, has made no secret of his willingness to play for Southampton next season.
In May he told the Daily Echo: “Of course I would like to stay here next season.
“I love it here. I love the boss. I love the staff. I love this place.”
“Of course we have to wait and see what happens. I won’t know much until I return to West Ham.
“We’ll see what happens there.”