Southampton could sign a 'surprise name' before tonight's 11pm transfer deadline, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.

The Lowdown: Southampton busy...

Throughout deadline day, the south coast club have been linked with the likes of Rennes winger Kamaldeen Sulemana and Genk striker Paul Onuachu.

It has been a very busy morning and afternoon at St Mary's, with Nathan Jones attempting to add more attackers to his ranks before the deadline.

The Premier League strugglers are among the division's lowest goalscorers, and it could be necessary for them to add more options in attack.

The Lowdown: Southampton 'surprise name' can't be ruled out...

According to talkSPORT reporter Crook, amid Southampton's links to both Onuachu and Sulemana, a 'surprise name' cannot be ruled out either.

It's claimed that there are 'lots of balls in the air', and Saints supporters may be in for a promising final few hours of the window.

He explained (via Twitter): "#SaintsFC still engaged in talks for Sulemana. Didn't seem like Onuachu was moving forward last night but lots of balls in the air. Could yet be a surprise name. Pressure on Sport Republic to come up with something in the next 11 hours."

The Verdict: Exciting...

After the links to Portuguese top-flight star Vitinha, as well, it appears that Southampton supporters may well see more names come out of the woodwork in the final few hours of the transfer window.

Marseille appear to have hijacked the Saints' bid for Vitinha earlier today, leaving the discussions for Sulemana and Onuachu potentially crucial if Jones wishes to strengthen the Saints' top-flight survival bid.

Signing an attacker is particularly important, with Southampton currently at the foot of the table and only Everton winning fewer matches than Jones' side.

The Saints have scored four in their last five matches, with two of those goals coming against the Toffees on January 14 in a 2-1 win at Goodison Park.

Depending on who the 'surprise name' may be, supporters may well be hoping it is someone who can make a significant contribution in the final third.