SAINTS have published their retained list following the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, with Stuart Armstrong set to depart.

Having helped Saints return to the Premier League, Armstrong will exit the club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of June.

The 32 year old arrived on the south coast from Celtic in 2018, making 214 appearances in six seasons at St Mary’s.

Scoring 25 goals in that time, the Scotland international featured 45 times in 2023/24 as promotion was secured via the playoffs.

A club statement said: "The club would like to thank Stuart for his commitment and effort during his time as a Saint, and we wish him the very best in whatever comes next." 

Daily Echo: Stuart Armstrong was expected to depart last summer before making a decision to serve his contractStuart Armstrong was expected to depart last summer before making a decision to serve his contract (Image: PA)

Long-serving goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, 32, and striker Che Adams, 27, are also approaching the end of their contracts.

The retained list revealed ongoing talks regarding potential new deals for the pair, who have been linked with interest elsewhere.

McCarthy, signed from Crystal Palace in 2016, has made 147 Saints appearances - the same he has made in the Premier League in his career.

Daily Echo: Alex McCarthy could remain at Saints despite offers from elsewhereAlex McCarthy could remain at Saints despite offers from elsewhere (Image: Richard Crease)

The Guildford-born stopper was key for manager Russell Martin after an injury to Gavin Bazunu towards the end of the season.

He helped Saints to keep clean sheets at The Hawthorns and at Wembley on the road back to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Adams - reportedly in discussions with Wolves - scored 16 goals in the Championship this season.

Daily Echo: Che Adams was an important part of the Saints team this seasonChe Adams was an important part of the Saints team this season (Image: Stuart Martin)

He is set to star for Scotland in this month's European Championships and add to his 25 caps. Adams has made 191 appearances for Saints.

The former Birmingham City man has only netted 25 goals in 124 appearances in England's top flight but has been integral to Southampton's promotion.

All other first-team players remain under contract and are set to report for pre-season at the start of July.