- Shea Charles on Manchester United radar
- Southampton star is a potential ‘third midfield signing’
- All focus should be on Mateus Fernandes and a big name
Manchester United are reportedly interested in Southampton midfielder Shea Charles but he shouldn’t be prioritised over Mateus Fernandes. The Red Devils are looking at signing not one, not two, but three new midfielders.
Casemiro’s impending departure will be addressed, and according to Chris Wheeler of Mail Sport, United could spend £150m on three new midfielders. They fall into separate financial categories, with the first priced at £80m and comprising high-profile names such as Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba.
A second midfield signing could be to replace Manuel Ugarte, whose days at Old Trafford are numbered. The club are looking at spending around £40m on a replacement and Mateus Fernandes is admired.
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United Keen on Charles
Wheeler claims that a third midfield signing is a possibility and that would be for a squad player valued at around £20m. There are three players in mind: Southampton’s Charles and Bournemouth duo Alex Scott and Tyler Adams.
There is no chance of the Cherries selling Scott for around £20m and it’s hard to imagine them listening to a similar fee for Adams. But Charles could very well be on the move for such a price.
The Northern Irish midfielder has impressed in the EFL Championship this season. The 22-year-old has caught the eye with five goals and two assists in 36 games across competitions.
A product of Manchester City’s academy, he starred in the Saints’ FA Cup win over Arsenal. He’s reportedly also on Crystal Palace’s wishlist.
Charles does tick plenty of boxes, especially if United want to strengthen with a squad player with potential. He is versatile and provides excellent backup to Kobbie Mainoo and whoever else arrives at Old Trafford in the middle of the park.
Mateus Fernandes is a Must
While Charles is an interesting option, he shouldn’t be prioritised and all focus should be on signing a big name and Mateus Fernandes. The latter could be available in a cut-price deal should West Ham United be relegated.
The Portuguese midfielder has been outstanding since ironically joining the Hammers from Southampton for £40m. He’s appeared 35 times across competitions, registering four goals and three assists.
If his side stays up, there’s little chance of West Ham listening to offers at the same price they paid. They will be demanding more for their big-money signing.
You could argue that he should actually be higher up the club’s shortlist as he’s been flourishing this season. The same can’t be said for someone like Baleba, who has faltered at Brighton & Hove Albion, but the Seagulls want an astronomical fee for the Cameroonian.
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