Russell Martin ready to blow half Rangers transfer budget signing Flynn Downes
Russell Martin is ready to put his stamp on his Rangers side with the support of Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises.
The new manager is reportedly turning to his old club Southampton for reinforcements, with Flynn Downes now of interest.
However, the Ibrox ownership could be expected to cough up a fair amount to complete a move this summer, with Southampton ready to stand firm on their valuation.
Southampton name price for Downes
With the transfer window open, Martin is eager to get business underway at Ibrox with plenty to be done to improve the squad.
Having managed Downes at Swansea before then signing him at Southampton, it’s no surprise that the boss is keen to turn to someone he already knows.
With the Saints suffering relegation to the Championship after Martin’s departure from the south coast, the 26-year-old could well be keen on a move to the Scottish Premiership.
However, according to the Scottish Sun (7 June), the Light Blues won’t be given any favours when it comes to the transfer fee.
The report states that Southampton are set to demand at least £10million for someone described as a “classy playmaker”.
The Ibrox ownership have handed Martin £20million to get his squad in shape, though, meaning he would be prepared to blow half of his budget on Downes alone.
Downes transfer could be a risk
There is no doubt that Downes is a good player and a move could well be on the cards for him this summer rather than having another season in the Championship.
Furthermore, given Martin already trusts him and is seemingly a big fan, the pair working together would surely be a great match.
| Season | Club | League | Appearances |
| 2024/25 | Southampton | Premier League | 27 |
| 2023/24 | Southampton (loan) | Championship | 33 |
| 2022/23 | West Ham | Premier League | 21 |
| 2021/22 | Swansea City | Championship | 37 |
The only drawback to this one is the high valuation being put on him in comparison to how much the boss has to spend.
There is plenty of work that needs doing at Ibrox to overhaul the team and start on a fresh note next season, so Rangers have to make their resources count.
Whether Martin would be able to try and strike a deal with his former side is yet to be seen, although the Saints are unlikely to be too accommodating to a manager they feel is partly responsible for their relegation.
Rangers certainly have to analyse the whole market first before they can consider making such a big purchase at this stage in the window.