No chance for HSV? The latest on the race for Downs | OneFootball

Before the start of the winter transfer window, HSV has identified the striker position as a clear area in need of improvement. At least one new goal scorer is needed!

Shortly before Christmas, Damion Downs emerged as a name that fits the desired profile. However, it is already clear that a transfer will definitely not be an easy task.

While the HSV professionals are still enjoying their well-deserved vacation, Downs is caught up in the English football routine. The Championship takes no breaks, and FC Southampton is currently playing every three days. After an injury at the end of November, the 21-year-old is fit again but is still waiting for his next squad nomination. This fuels the transfer rumors.

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Strong Competition! Not only HSV is courting Downs

According to Mopo information, Hamburg has clearly expressed their interest. Given the tense personnel situation in the attack, this is hardly surprising. Yussuf Poulsen will be out for several weeks, Ransford Königsdörffer scores too infrequently, and Robert Glatzel will return from an injury after the New Year. A new striker – or rather two – is needed. Downs, fast, robust, and with Bundesliga experience from Cologne, is considered a promising candidate.

But the competition is not asleep. Downs is said to have several inquiries from the Bundesliga, and there is also interest from abroad. A trend is emerging: the US international apparently prefers a move to Germany. For Downs, it's about playing time, rhythm, and especially securing his place in the squad for the 2026 home World Cup.

This makes the situation complicated for HSV. In the Southampton environment, Hamburg is considered more of an outsider. Although the Saints are generally open to a loan, first division clubs currently have better sporting and economic prospects. Even Bild reports that HSV's chances of landing Downs are "extremely slim."

In Volkspark, they are aware of the hurdles. Sports director Stefan Kuntz and sporting director Claus Costa are simultaneously exploring other options. However, the situation with Downs could progress quickly – as the Bundesliga resumes play on January 9th.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.