Southampton could turn to ex-Saint Stuart Armstrong as Joe Aribo's replacement, who is tipped to leave this summer.
Almost suddenly, Southampton's midfield department feels on the verge of a massive exodus. And that's largely due to the growing departure rumours surrounding midfield duo, Mateus Fernandes and Joe Aribo.
Now, the two being the sole reason behind Southampton's occasional dominance in games, losing each of them is sure to cost the Saints. But, for the fans, it could be a question of youth energy vs experience.
That's why, while the Saints' replacement search for Fernandes has yielded results already, finding a successor for Aribo is tipped to be quite more of a challenging job. One that requires an experienced signing to resonate with the club's young squad.
Sounds like a tough ask, but Southampton may have a jackpot option already waiting in their wings.
Just when it seemed like fate had turned too much on the Saints, they've been handed a golden opportunity to recall former hero Stuart Armstrong for a second spell.
Southampton tipped to recall Stuart Armstrong as Joe Aribo's replacement
As per the Daily Echo, after finishing his winter loan with Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship, Armstrong has hit free agency again. Well, that's what sets up a perfect opportunity for Southampton to reconsider including the fan favourite midfielder back in their ranks.
A box-to-box midfielder like Aribo, having over 200 appearances for Southampton already, Armstrong's profile calls for a Saints reunion in every possible way. And the fact that his signing will come free of cost further simplifies Southampton's decision-making.
What's more interesting? Armstrong has had some unfinished business at St. Mary's. During his last spell in the Championship, he missed out on the club's Wembley playoff Final due to an injury. If that does anything, it just boosts his hunger for winning a promotion with Southampton again.
Notice this. Aptly, Joe Aribo wants to leave Southampton for his European dream while Stuart Armstrong wants a Championship win with the Saints. Doesn't it feel like a tailor-made script already?
Hoping that it translates to reality for Southampton's better.