A former Rangers defender is currently managing the Celtic transfer target.
Shea Charles has been told that a move to Celtic is not feasible at the moment. The midfielder, who transferred from Manchester City to Southampton in a deal potentially worth £15m last summer and contributed to their promotion in the 2023/24 season, is being eyed by Russell Martin, a former Rangers defender and current Saints manager. Martin has expressed interest in Celtic’s Matt O’Riley.
Although Charles might head to Celtic, it’s unclear if he could be part of a deal for O’Riley. Martin, speaking after a friendly against Oxford United, made it clear that he wants to add more players to his squad before allowing anyone to leave, noting that the transfer window remains open until the end of August. Meanwhile, Celtic has secured Paulo Bernardo to strengthen their midfield, and another reported target has shown strong pre-season form.
Martin told the Daily Echo regarding Charles: “Given the current state of the squad, it’s not possible. We need additional reinforcements, and while Ben Brereton Diaz is a strong addition, we need to bring in a few more players before the Premier League season starts, if possible.
“Unfortunately, the transfer window runs until the end of August, which gives the bigger clubs a significant advantage. It is what it is. We’ll bring in more players and reassess the situation, but Shea was good tonight against Oxford United.”