Celtic target Pierce Charles has reportedly agreed a move to Manchester City.
The 20-year-old, who established himself as one of the most exciting young goalkeepers in the country this season, will return to the club where he and his brother spent many years in the academy.
Both Celtic and Rangers were linked with Charles, with his pre-existing relationship with Danny Rohl playing a part in interest from Ibrox.
He has opted for a different route and is now expected to be loaned out by the Premier League giants this season.
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Formalities being sorted for Pierce Charles to join Man City, player to be loaned out
Everyone’s favourite celebrity journo Fabrizio Romano reports that formalities are being sorted for Charles’ return to Manchester.
Alex Crook of talkSPORT says that the player is likely to be loaned out.
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Charles was relegated to League One with the Owls this season as the club finished with a negative points total in the Championship.
Shea Charles, also previously linked with Celtic, is the keeper’s older brother and is himself expected to make a big-money move this summer.
Small for a goalkeeper at 6 ft 1 in, Charles has earned plaudits for his ability on the ball. He claimed an excellent assist against Hull City in December.
In total, he has 44 senior appearances, all at either Championship or international level. This extent of first-team exposure is rare for a goalkeeper.
In response to reports linking Charles with a move to Glasgow, ex-Rangers and Wednesday midfielder Josh Windass said that the goalkeeper is “the best player in the world”.
He has even been discussed by Michael McGovern, who joined the Parkhead coaching set-up earlier this year.
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Michael McGovern on Celtic target Pierce Charles
McGovern told the Belfast Telegraph on Charles: “I think from Pierce’s point of view, you just have to keep playing football and developing.
“I have watched him a good bit and I see so much potential in him.
“He can be a real star and you can see that despite his young age. I’m sure there is interest in him.
“He has so many talents, including being exceptional with the ball at his feet.
He is one of the best I have seen at that, but he is also very good at defending the goal and makes big saves in big moments. It’s not just his distribution that impresses people.”
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