Arsenal clear path for shock Endrick transfer with move for former Man City star

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Shea Charles. The 21-year-old Southampton midfielder has impressed on loan at Sheffield Wednesday this season and is considered as one of the most promising youngsters in the Championship.

Charles started his career at Manchester City and made one first-team appearance under Pep Guardiola before leaving the club to join Southampton in 2023 for a fee rising to £15million. He played 38 times for Russell Martin's side last term, helping Saints win promotion back to the Premier League.

However, following their return to the top flight, Charles was sent out to Wednesday to gain more senior experience. It's a loan that is working, with the Northern Irishman flourishing at the Owls and has started in every Championship game since his move to South Yorkshire at the end of August.

READ MORE: Jose Mourinho has already given Arsenal green light to seal £37.5m Arda Guler transfer

READ MORE: Arsenal learn Pep Guardiola relegation stance as Man City 115 charges case takes new 'twist'

And his form has not gone unnoticed by some of the top clubs in England. In fact, Arsenal are showing interest in the former City midfielder and Arteta has Charles in his sights as a possible future signing, according to Fichajes.

The Gunners' interest is in line with Arteta's vision to bring in young and talented players with a view of strengthening the squad in the long term. Charles fits that project with the experience he has already got and the potential to get even better and mould into a ready-made Premier League performer.

As well as having over 50 senior club appearances under belt, Charles has been capped 23 times by Northern Ireland and has been one of their best players in 2024. Charles captained his nation twice over the international break against Belarus and Luxembourg and is already showing excellent leadership skills.

Southampton could decide to recall Charles in January, however, after Wednesday boss Danny Rohl hinted that the midfielder might not be there for the second half of the season.

Speaking last month, Rohl said: "Charles is strong with and against the ball, he is very good as a holding six. He understands where he has to cover, winning balls, accelerating the game. Hopefully we can keep him the whole season, you never know what happens if he performs in this direction."

Speculation over Charles' long-term future comes after it was reported that Southampton are interested in a shock move for Real Madrid sensation Endrick. The 18-year-old Brazilian, who scored the winner against England at Wembley in March, has struggled since his move to Madrid in the summer and hasn't started a single La Liga game this season, finding himself behind the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr in the pecking order.

Although a loan has been mentioned for Endrick to make the switch to St Mary's, Southampton may have to pay a considerable amount of his wages which might force them to sell Charles.