Southampton's recent approach for Asmir Begovic has drawn criticism from the St. Mary's fans, who might prefer a Saints flop in goal instead of a rival star.
Southampton fans feel pride in their all-time greats regularly taking to the pitch for charitable causes but last month's occasion was far from a cheerful evening. The only blemish there, was fan favourite Matt Le Tissier sporting Portsmouth's colours, that too decades after his farewell to the sport.
Now, imagine if the fans can be upset with one of their revered heroes for siding with their derby rivals, then, this disappointment can be even bigger should they witness someone crossing the Southern divide as an active player.
Thankfully, no Saint is interested in letting down the St. Mary's but it seems the club has no problems in doing that. By securing the services of former Portsmouth starter, Asmir Begovic.
I know, the board must be stopped from rushing the transfer call and Saints fan pundit Martin Sanders has arrived with a timely disapproval.
As quoted by the Football League World, Sanders said: "Brings experience, not sure it would go down that well with the fanbase being an ex-Pompey goalkeeper. 38 years old, is he really what Southampton need right now? Not in my opinion."
Saints won't be annoyed with Gunn's return unlike Begovic
These comments will absolutely sit well with the fan beliefs but the financial aspects are where it may be hard to justify. So, how about another out-of-contract number one in familiar Saint Angus Gunn?
First of all, I am not covering up his keeping flaws from his early stint but if Southampton can ignore the "played for rivals" tag, then there shouldn't be any issues in recalling one of their own. Plus, Gunn is nearly a ten-year younger option on Begovic though his career's prime may not last beyond five years.
Let's hope Southampton give the Gunn transfer idea a try too.