Shea Charles and Justin Devenny are international teammates. They have played alongside each other for Northern Ireland, but now it looks like one is about to replace the other.
Now Southampton are reportedly eyeing a move to bring Devenny to St Mary's just as Charles prepares to leave.
It is either poetic or pragmatic. Possibly both.
The Charles exit is coming
Charles has been one of Southampton's most important players since joining the club. Three goals and two assists in 31 Championship appearances this season, combined with strong defensive numbers and genuine leadership in midfield, made him one of the most talked-about players in the Saints squad last season.
Leeds United have submitted an offer, but their interest is waning. Everton have joined the race. Southampton want £30+ million, and they are not budging.
Charles has one year remaining beyond this summer on his contract. The club knows this is their best opportunity to cash in at full value. Waiting risks losing him for a reduced fee or nothing at all.
Devenny is a ready-made replacement
Southampton are now reportedly keen on signing Devenny as a direct replacement for Charles, although he can also play on the left.
The 22-year-old has Premier League experience, an FA Cup winners' medal and a Conference League medal from his time at Crystal Palace. He has been capped 14 times by Northern Ireland and scored his first senior international goal last September in a 3-1 win in Luxembourg.
Oliver Glasner has described Devenny as a very technical player who understands the game.
With just one year left on his contract, Palace's asking price will be manageable. Southampton, flush with money from a Charles sale, would have no trouble affording the deal.
A connection that could ease the transition
Although Charles and Devenny know each other well, they may never get to play alongside each other in Southampton's red and white stripes.
For Tonda Eckert, inheriting a midfielder who already knows the international colleague he is replacing brings obvious benefits. The style, the positioning, the defensive instincts.
Preston North End are also interested, which adds urgency. Southampton need to move before a Championship rival gets there first.
Sell one Northern Ireland midfielder for £30 million. Sign another for a fraction of that fee. Keep the Northern Ireland international talent alive in the centre of the park.
Spors has pulled off smarter deals than this in recent months. This one looks straightforward by comparison.
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