Manchester United have identified Southampton midfielder Shea Charles as a potential transfer target this summer, according to reports. The 22-year-old has become a more likely candidate to leave St Mary’s following Southampton’s disqualification from the Championship play-offs due to a spying scandal.
United are aiming to bolster their midfield options following the departure of Casemiro and with Manuel Ugarte expected to be sold. The club has reportedly allocated a budget of £140-150million to sign three midfielders, with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba currently considered the primary target for a replacement for Casemiro. A further £40million is earmarked for a replacement for Ugarte, with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes also a key target.
Charles, who progressed through Manchester City’s academy, impressed in the Championship this season, notably scoring a late winner against Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals and netting in extra time against Middlesbrough. Despite his contributions, Southampton’s play-off expulsion has altered their financial landscape, making Charles’s departure more probable.
United have also renewed their interest in Mateus Fernandes, submitting a new ‘enquiry’ for the 21-year-old. Sources indicate the club is eager to add dynamism to their midfield, and Fernandes is keen on a move to Old Trafford, citing admiration for captain Bruno Fernandes and a desire to play in the Champions League. West Ham currently value Fernandes at £80 million, but this price is expected to fall should they be relegated to the Championship. Competition for Fernandes is fierce, with interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Chelsea, however, United are currently considered the frontrunners.
Additionally, United director of football Jason Wilcox is reportedly pursuing Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, though securing his signature appears challenging as Newcastle are keen to retain the full-back for the long term.
