Midfielder Downes became Moyes’ third big signing of the summer on Thursday, Swansea join in a deal worth an initial £9 million.
Moyes has made a habit of recruiting from the lower leagues throughout his career and signed Bowen from Hull just a month after his second stint as Hammers boss, in January 2020.
The winger had a stellar season last season, earning a Premier League Player of the Year nomination, as well as his first England call-up at the end of the campaign.
“We think [Downes] has good energy,” said Moyes, explaining the signing. “We think he has a lot of things that we have about our team that we would like to keep and add to. I’m looking forward to it.
“We took Jarrod Bowen out of a similar situation at Hull, so we’re always trying to find Championship guys who we think will go the extra mile to become Premier League players. I hope Flynn does. I think there is. a good chance, because he has a lot of good qualities.”
West Ham start the preseason this afternoon with a friendly against the Swiss Servette in Geneva. Downes, who is a youth fan of West Ham, will not be involved but will instead be in touch with his new team-mates when they return to Rush Green after the game.
The 23-year-old will be joined by Declan Rice and Bowen, along with the rest of the club’s internationals, who were given extra time off after their late season finish.
“It’s been my dream since I was a little boy to join this club – it’s an absolute privilege,” he told the club’s website. “This is my club, so I couldn’t be happier. I’m happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started.
“Players have come to West Ham from the Championship and have progressed to international honours. That’s something you can’t ignore. The manager’s track record of putting players through was a big motivation for me to join the club. come.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a West Ham player.”