Southampton must think carefully before cashing in on Yukinari Sugawara.
The Japanese international is currently on loan at SV Werder Bremen, who have an option to buy for around €6 million.
However, reports suggest Bremen may not trigger that clause. They could try to negotiate a lower fee because finances are tight. That opens the door for Southampton to reintegrate him into the squad.
A decision might need to be made.
Sugawara might not be first choice if Saints reach the Premier League. That is fair. The club will likely look for a higher-level starter.
But squads make successful seasons and not just starting elevens. Sugawara could be a very useful backup because he brings qualities that fit Southampton's tactics under Tonda Eckert.
He has shown in Germany that he can play in a more direct system. He is comfortable hitting long passes and switching play and moving the ball quickly forward.
A better fit under Eckert
Sugawara did not always look suited to the slower build-up style seen under Russell Martin. The game often passed him by because it required patience and short passing and constant recycling.
Under Tonda Eckert, things look different.
There is more energy and more direct intent and quicker transitions. That suits Sugawara because he can deliver early balls and stretch the pitch and support attacks at speed.
He has already shown a high percentage of accurate long passes. That is a weapon in the modern game because teams press high, and space appears quickly.
Southampton need options like that.
Keeping Sugawara would give depth and flexibility. Injuries occur, suspensions happen, and form drops. A reliable backup is essential.
And at 25, he is experienced enough to step in without fear. He is also still developing and that means there could be more to come.
Selling him for a reduced fee may not make sense. The difference between €6 million and a lower negotiated fee is small in the bigger picture.
But keeping a player who understands the system and can contribute is valuable.
Saints have made mistakes before by letting useful squad players leave too easily. This feels like one they should avoid.
Sugawara may not be the headline name. He may not start every week. But if Southampton are serious about staying in the Premier League, should they reach the promised land, they will need squad players like him.