I wanted to ask whether it is possible to somehow remove one of the double usb hubs and solder there additional RJ45 port? I know it is possible to use USB to ethernet dongle but that is sadly not an option in this case.
What I am trying to achieve is network between two devices (one being mentioned RPI) that are next to each other. Network cable, each device having its own RJ45 port and therefore unique IP, is the only way they can communicate. I'd like to avoid the option where I need to carry switch with me in order to make this work, but soldering additional RJ45-port and make one of RPI ports act as switch would make it work.
EDIT: Of course I am open to possible workarounds. The main issue is limited space thats why I can't for example use shield that adds 2 eth ports. Just to inform, the 2nd device is old PS2. It would be nice if ps2 NIC could be somehow connected to rj45 port of RPi and share the same IP, therefore I could host SMB localy. Sadly PS2 is quite ancient, dont think there will be any compatibility.
the only way they can communicate
... why do you think that?I know it is possible to use USB to ethernet dongle but that is sadly not an option in this case.
why not? you can get some pretty compact usb-ethernet dongles