Why Shea Charles would fit the Celtic mould as interest in midfielder emerges

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Southampton midfielder Shea Charles is the latest target to be mentioned in connection with Celtic amid their efforts to bolster several different areas.

Truthfully, this window has been a test of patience for many in the support. With only a few days until the Scottish Premiership campaign kicks off against Kilmarnock, the Bhoys are still yet to sign an outfield player.

Furthermore, Celtic’s pursuit of Charles appears to have directly correlated with Southampton’s efforts to push a deal over the line for Matt O’Riley.

The Northern Ireland international could potentially arrive on loan with an option to buy. However, it isn’t made clear whether this could create a swap agreement involving O’Riley or if the former Manchester City youth would come in as a standalone acquisition.

Brendan Rodgers could also see other dominos fall in the engine room. Paulo Bernardo is reportedly set to complete his return to Celtic; meanwhile, Reo Hatate is on the radar at Leicester City.

With mixed emotions emerging from fans at the prospect of such movement, there is still plenty of context to suggest Charles would be a positive signing.

Shea Charles and the Celtic question

Evaluating the situation, Charles is a talented youngster who arrived at Southampton for £15 million from Manchester City last summer, going on to make 38 appearances as they won promotion to the Premier League.

Predominantly a number six, the Manchester-born midfielder can also feature as a centre-half or right-back, providing versatility to cover for potential injuries in alternative areas.

Per FBRef, Charles has shown up well over the last 365 days (pitted against individuals in top 14 leagues after Europe’s big five) in the art of pass completion, finding his intended target 88.9% of the time, putting him in the 93rd percentile.

Furthermore, the Southampton man won 84 duels, made 91 ball recoveries and came out on top in 18 tackles on league duty [Fotmob].

Aged just 20, Charles is in the bracket of player that fits the Celtic recruitment profile; he is young, has a high ceiling and potential sell-on value, provided the club do negotiate an option to buy in any forthcoming talks.

Coming from one of the Premier League’s best academies, he is undoubtedly an exciting talent. Nevertheless, he only started 15 times last term, so there is a need for a suitable environment to showcase his worth.

Whether that could be at Celtic remains to be seen, with fans reticent to endorse what could essentially be a sweetener in losing O’Riley. In spite of this, Charles should be judged on his own merits should he arrive this summer.