Southampton midfielder Shea Charles told Premier League move is a matter of “when, not if”

Shea Charles has been told he has everything needed to return to the Premier League by former Northern Ireland international striker Conor Washington, who believes the Southampton midfielder can earn another opportunity at the top level.

Charles, who made his Premier League debut with Manchester City before joining Southampton in 2023, has been at the centre of a transfer saga throughout the summer.

Leeds United have reportedly had multiple bids rejected for his services, with Saints valuing the midfielder at £30m.

While Leeds appear to have fallen out of the race for his signature, Fulham are now said to be leading the chase for the 22-year-old, according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg.

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Composed

Asked whether he thinks Charles will be desperate to secure a return to the Premier League this summer, Washington believes his fellow countryman’s calm personality means he will not be distracted by speculation, while insisting it is a matter of “when, not if” before he returns to the top flight.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with BylineCoverage, he said: “I can’t imagine anything about Shea Charles being desperate, to be honest, just from seeing his character up close.

“He’s very calm, very composed, and whatever comes his way, he seems to handle and just goes on to the next thing.

“So I don’t think he’ll be knocking the door down or worrying particularly about getting back to the Premier League.

“But as we all know, he’s got Premier League ability, and it’ll just be a case of when, not if, for him.”

Develop

Charles’ breakthrough at St Mary’s came last season following a successful loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday during the 2024-25 campaign.

He went on to make 38 appearances for Southampton, including scoring the winner against Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals to send the Saints to Wembley, while also continuing to establish himself as an important figure for his country.

Reflecting on Charles’ development and what the next step in his career could look like, Washington added: “I think he’s done the Championship now, and the Premier League would be great for him if he can get in there.

“He obviously needs to play in a team that suits his style and what he wants, and the way he plays.

“So I think it’s important for him that his next move is at a level that can further develop him as a player and also showcase his abilities, really.”

Read the full exclusive interview with Conor Washington for BylineCoverage HERE

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