If a recent report from SunSport is believed to be true, Celtic are weighing up a summer swoop for Southampton youngster Shea Charles. They are keen on striking a deal by all possible means and could offer an initial season-long loan with an option to buy.
The 20-year-old, already a regular for Northern Ireland at senior level, progressed through the esteemed academy ranks of Manchester City since joining them at the age of 7. He was key to the SkyBlues U23s’ Premier League 2 triumph and his emergence caught the eyes of Pep Guardiola who handed him an opportunity to train with the first-team squad. Charles was rewarded with a senior debut last year during their final game of the 2022-23 season. Yet, the English champions sanctioned his transfer to Southampton knowing he would be way down the pecking order thanks to their star-studded midfield.
The Saints, who have lately roped in several youngsters from City, spent £10.5million (potentially rising to £15m) for the midfield prospect. He made 38 appearances last season across competitions and played his part in their promotion to the Premier League via a playoff triumph over Leeds United.
Why Celtic Should Step Up The Chase
Predominantly a deep-lying playmaker, Charles also deputized as a centre-back, wide midfielder, ‘number 8’ and fullback, in the Championship. His versatility makes him a prized asset despite limited minutes, and the gaffer Russell Martin must have a plan to utilize him in the top tier of the English pyramid.
Meanwhile, the arrival of Flynn Downes on loan from West Ham restricted his gametime at St Mary’s. Southampton have now tied him down on permanent terms and it remains to be seen whether the Northern Irishman decides to explore a fresh opportunity north of the border.
Celtic are sweating over Matt O’Riley’s future who has emerged as a transfer target for several European hotshots. The south coast side are also in the mix but have seen a bid of around £14m rejected by the Parkhead outfit. Charles could be an exciting addition to emulate O’Riley’s success in the centre of the pitch, however, a straight swap or a potential player plus cash deal seems unlikely at this stage with both clubs chasing multiple other targets before the summer deadline.
The Hoops are also closing in on Paulo Bernardo from Benfica after a successful 2023-24 loan. He, alongside Reo Hatate, should feature in the middle of the park, also, the arrival of Charles would allow skipper Callum McGregor to operate as a box-to-box midfielder. The talks might gather pace in the coming days as the Celts aim for a better European show coupled with domestic dominance.
