It is due to be a busy summer at Southampton ahead of their Premier League return and not every player from last season will be along for the ride.
Russell Martin knows he needs additions in order for his Southampton side to compete in the top flight and work has already begun to strengthen the squad.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ loan deal was officially made permanent on Monday, whilst Adam Lallana and Charlie Taylor have both joined for free to add vital Premier League experience.
Now, Southampton are linked with a deal for a highly-rated young defender which could spell the end for a player who was integral as the Saints earned promotion last season.
Ronnie Edwards arrival could see Jan Bednarek leave Southampton
Martin is keen to add to his defence ahead of next season, with Harwood-Bellis, Jack Stephens and Jan Bednarek currently the only three senior centre-backs at the club.
This has seen Southampton linked with a double swoop for EFL pair Nathan Wood and Ronnie Edwards.
Reports suggest that the pair could be signed for a bargain initial combined fee of just £6 million and it is Edwards’ signing which perhaps has the greatest implications for the current crop of centre-backs.
- READ MORE: Southampton now ‘close to finalising’ double transfer swoop for EFL duo amid Max Aarons bid
Martin is a big admirer of 21-year-old Edwards, having kept a keen eye on the centre-back’s development at Peterborough United over the past few seasons.
If the Saints are to wrap up a deal for Edwards – who appears ready made for the Premier League – it could well mean the end for Bednarek despite the Polish defender enjoying a fine season in which he was crucial to a top flight return.
Bednarek contract situation could see him leave Southampton this summer
Given he made 45 Championship appearances last season before his form saw him called up to represent Poland at the Euros, it may seem strange that Southampton would let Bednarek leave.
- READ MORE: Polish national media react to Southampton star Jan Bednarek’s display v Netherlands at Euro 2024
However, the imminent arrival of Edwards alongside Woods – who Martin managed at Swansea City – could mean the club move on the experienced defender.
That is because they are keen to avoid a repeat of the situation they have found themselves in this summer, where Stuart Armstrong left at the end of his contract, Alex McCarthy signed a last minute new deal and Che Adams’ future remains undecided with negotiations ongoing.
Sport Republic do not want players to enter the final year of their contracts and are keen to avoid risking losing players for free.
Martin is a huge admirer of Bednarek, responding when asked about the influence of Stuart Armstrong and the Pole in February: “They’ve both been massive for us. Huge. But Janny is for the courage he shows with ball. He’s been one of the best players in the league. He’s been amazing.
“He’s so commanding, has authority and with the ball I think people underestimate what he does for the team.
“He’s brilliant. I love working with him and call him the boss on the pitch as often he is. He starts so many things for us and orchestrates so much.”
However, the Southampton manager will understand the position of the club’s board and may well be resigned to losing Bednarek.
If he is to replace the 28-year-old with Edwards, he may just accept that this is the best outcome.