Journalist Mark Hendry of Football Scotland has shared a deadline day 'twist' involving Southampton and target Moussa Dembele.

The Lowdown: Saints making moves...

The Saints are attempting to back manager Nathan Jones on deadline day and reports suggest that attackers are firmly on the agenda at St. Mary's Stadium.

Southampton are among the Premier League's lowest goal scorers and, if the south coast side are to survive, they will need to start being more threatening in the final third.

Currently at the foot of the table, supporters were perhaps boosted by news yesterday that they had a bid accepted for Dembele, but reporter Hendry has shared a 'twist' to the tale.

The Latest: Hendry shares Dembele twist...

The Football Scotland journalist, sharing news after the offer, claims Dembele will not be joining Southampton this window.

He explained:

"Twist in the tale. #Southampton won’t be Dembele’s next club. Understand he’s waiting for the summer. No guarantees where Saints will be next season and he wants long-term Premier League football."

The Verdict: Blow for Jones...

The Frenchman is a proven goal scorer and one who could've seriously bolstered Jones' front line when at his very best.

As per WhoScored, Dembele scored 21 goals and a further four assists for Lyon over the 2021/2022 season, not to mention 16 the season prior and 15 the year before that.

While the former Celtic star hasn't lived up to his best this season over limited appearances, all signs of his previous form would point to a reliable goal-getter when playing at top form.

Still just 26-years-old, Dembele would also come to Southampton as a long-term acquisition, but as per Hendry, it's a transfer that looks off the cards for now.

Perhaps they can return for a move later in the year.