SAINTS would consider letting promotion-hero Adam Armstrong leave the club on loan but it would require a sizeable financial package.

Armstrong, 27, has been linked to a number of Championship clubs on deadline day, including Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Sunderland.

Armstrong netted the winning goal in last season's Championship play-off final against Leeds. It was his 24th strike of the league campaign.

Leeds, who were also interested in Cameron Archer, have already been ruled out as a potential destination for Saints number nine Armstrong.

The former Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers man has failed to bring his Championship form into the Premier League again.

A record of just two goals in 20 matches has seen Armstrong fall down the pecking order of both former boss Russell Martin and Ivan Juric.

As a result, Saints would consider a loan departure today but it is not considered likely with the club demanding a sizeable transfer package.

They would require an upfront loan fee and his wages to be covered to sanction a move, while Armstrong could be key for Saints next season.

Every player has his price and should a club come in with a big offer, Saints would likely consider a permanent exit, but it has not been discussed.