Southampton manager Russell Martin has commented on the future of Shea Charles, admitting that until he drafts in some reinforcements, the Northern Ireland international won’t be allowed to leave St. Mary’s.
Initially linked with the Hoops earlier in the week, Charles is a product of Manchester City’s academy who moved to the South Coast for big money last summer.
The 20-year-old hasn’t particularly set it alight with the Saints, but that hasn’t toned down Celtic’s interest.
While a move for Charles was initially discussed as a swap deal involving Matt O’Riley, it was later cleared up that the Premiership champions want to sign the defensive midfielder separately.
He is not a direct replacement for the Dane, and Hoops fans will be encouraged to hear the club share the same mindset. Despite this, a move for Charles right now is more difficult than it seems.
Indeed, Martin recently commented on the midfielder, giving a definitive update on his future.
Asked whether Charles would be allowed to leave Southampton amid Celtic’s interest, the gaffer promptly responded. “With the squad as it is right now, not a chance”, he said (Daily Echo).
“We need some reinforcements, I think.”
Once the newly promoted English Premier League outfit strengthens and perhaps sign a midfielder or two, then we might hear more about the Hoops’ interest in Charles.
