Southampton are eyeing a move for Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny, having set out to strengthen their midfield this summer.
The Saints may be forced to enter the market for a new central midfielder, with Shea Charles‘ future in doubt, amid interest from Leeds United, and the Premier League side have now submitted an offer.
However, the Whites are yet to match the Championship club’s demands, potentially opening the door for a hijack, with Everton recently storming into the race.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Should Charles depart, the Saints will definitely need to sign a new midfielder this summer. The Northern Irishman was an important player last season, chipping in with three goals and two assists in 31 Championship outings. |
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Finances |
It is unclear what sort of fee Palace are hoping to receive for Devenny, but he has just one year remaining on his contract, which weakens their negotiating position. With Southampton holding out for £30m for Charles though, Tonda Eckert should have ample funds to strengthen the squad. |
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Insight |
Oliver Glasner has been full of praise for the 22-year-old, saying: “He’s an unbelievable footballer, very technical. He understands the game, finds space, and can score goals.” However, he is yet to make a real name for himself with the Eagles, appearing for just 789 minutes in the Premier League last season. |
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Impact |
Should Southampton get a deal over the line, they may be able to afford to sanction Charles’ departure. Devenny is also capable of playing in an attacking midfield role, meaning he could challenge for Finn Azaz’s starting spot. |
Southampton eyeing move for Justin Devenny
According to reporter Alan Nixon (via SaintsExtra), Southampton are now keen on signing the Crystal Palace midfielder, who is regarded as a direct replacement for Charles.
However, Preston North End are also in the race for the 14-cap Northern Ireland international, which means there could be competition for his signature.
Justin Devenny could be solid Shea Charles heir
Southampton have deployed their Northern Irish midfielder in a deeper midfield role throughout the majority of his time at St. Mary’s, and the Palace star flourishes from a defensive point of view.
Last season, the Scotland-born midfielder averaged 2.9 tackles per 90 in the Premier League, which was the second-highest number in the squad, and more than Charles’ average of 2.1 in the Championship.
In fact, an average of 8.2 defensive contributions per 90 is higher than any member of the Southampton squad, barring Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who averaged 9.9.
Devenny has been unable to establish himself as a regular starter for Palace, which means a move to the Championship would make a lot of sense, and his defensive attributes mean he could be a solid replacement for Eckert’s star midfielder.
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