Shea Charles was last night linked with a move to Celtic, the Hoops reportedly lining up a loan-to-buy deal for the Southampton midfielder. Today, we profile the 20-year-old.
Career So Far
Charles spent his youth in the Manchester City academy. He played 98 times for their under-18s, 19s, and 21s sides, winning two league titles with the U21s and three with the U18s.
Having played just once for the City first team by the time he was 19, though, Charles moved on.
The midfielder signed for Southampton last summer in a deal worth just over £10m (Transfermarkt).
He was in and out of the team during his first year at St. Mary’s as they gained promotion to the English Premier League, starting 15 games in the Championship and five across the league and FA cups.
Now at somewhat of a crossroads, a big summer lies ahead for the 17-time capped Northern Ireland internationalist.
Play Style
Charles is predominantly a holding midfielder who is equally adept at centre-half.
He is more than capable on the ball and offers great press resistance, something that could be useful for Brendan Rodgers in Europe this term.
Transfer Value
The player’s current Transfermarkt value sits at £8.4m. Celtic would have to pay a pretty penny if they were to get their man permanently this summer, but a loan-to-buy deal, which has been mentioned, could be wise.
Where does he fit in?
One, though, has to question Celtic’s need for a player like Charles.
Tomoki Iwata has proved an ample deputy to Callum McGregor, and the Southampton man can in no way be seen as a direct replacement for Matt O’Riley. They are two players at opposite ends of the midfield spectrum.
It remains to be seen how this one will progress, but Charles is certainly a player to keep an eye on as the transfer window rages on.
