FORMER Rovers striker Adam Armstrong has been linked with a loan move to Middlesbrough.

Armstrong arrived at Ewood Park in January 2008, initially on a loan deal from hometown club Newcastle before making the move permanent the following summer.

The forward went on to make 160 appearances for Rovers, becoming a popular figure among supporters.

He left Ewood Park to join Southampton last summer after scoring 29 goals in all competitions during the 2020/21 campaign.

However, Armstrong found the net twice in 17 starts last term and the Saints are reportedly ready to let him head out on loan.

Speaking last month, boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “I have a feeling that nobody is happy when you are not playing. This is normal – nobody should be happy when he is not playing.

“He should be looking to come into the team as quick as possible because everyone wants to play, and it is up to me to find the right players to do so.”

Chris Wilder is said to be keen to bring the 25-year-old to the North East but wages could be an issue, with Boro hoping Southampton will agree to pay part of his salary.

Yesterday, The Lancashire Telegraph revealed that Middlesbrough have agreed a deal with out-of-contract Rovers captain Darragh Lenihan.

The defender was an almost ever-present figure in the Championship last season and has made over 250 appearances for the club in total.

He is currently away on international duty with Republic of Ireland but is expected to sign a long-term deal at the Riverside.

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