Yeah that is another factor but equally, based on last season, you could say Downes was our most important player so we need to sign him permanently.
As I mentioned a week or so ago it all depends how our scouts view other targets. If it’s Downes is miles above anyone else then we are in a tough negotiating spot (not that West Ham would know that’s how we felt). If we have Identified players who could he alternatives for Downes and are comfortable walking away if we can’t get a specific deal done then so be it.
Same with replacements/keeping KWP