Southampton to pursue permanent Downes and Fraser transfers

The pair played key roles in Southampton's promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Downes and Fraser both started in their 1-0 win over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley on Sunday.

Both players are keen to return to St Mary's after the summer, with pre-season likely to start around a week into July.

Saints will pursue a permanent transfer for both - with Downes on loan from West Ham and Fraser on loan from Newcastle United.

Ryan Fraser (left) celebrates on the final whistle at Wembley Stadium (Image: PA/Nick Potts)

Advanced work has already been done to secure the signing of Fraser, who has 12 months left on his contract at St James' Park.

Saints will still need to agree a fee with both clubs individually for each player if they are to sign permanently at St Mary's.

Downes, who played under Martin at Swansea before moving to the Premier League Hammers, made 36 Championship appearances this season.

Fraser totted up 42 appearances with six goals to show for it, including last-minute winners at Hull City and Millwall.

There has been no estimate given as to how much each player would cost Saints to sign permanently this summer.

Saints have already sealed the signing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis after a £20million obligation to buy in his loan contract was triggered by promotion.