Who is Shea Charles? Celtic transfer 'target' who had Pep Guardiola raving before Michael O'Neill red alert

Celtic fans have been keeping a close eye on Southampton transfer activity this summer with the newly-promoted English Premier League side determined to land Matt O'Riley for their return to the top flight.

But the Hoops legions could now be looking at the south coast club for different reasons - because their next signing might well come from St Mary's according to a report. Shea Charles is the latest name linked with last season's double winners and the midfielder could even be part of a deal IF Brendan Rodgers and the Parkhead powerbrokers decide to let O'Riley hook up with his old MK Dons boss and former Scotland defender Russell Martin at Southampton.

Charles is a youngster who is tipped to have a bright future in the game having already been capped 17 times for Northern Ireland. He can play in a variety of positions - not just O'Riley's midfield role - which could make him a real asset for Celtic. And here, Record Sport looks at why he could be exciting.

Born in Manchester, he joined hometown club Manchester City at the age of just seven and progressed through the youth ranks - playing a key role in the winning Premier League 2 in 2021/22 - to make his debut in the English Premier League as a substitute, replacing Nathan Ake in a defeat to Brentford in the final game of the 2022/23 season. That was his only appearance for the Citizens and he left to join Southampton in a deal that could be worth up to £15million.

Charles is predominantly a midfielder but can play a variety of positions and his versatility could be part of his appeal to Brendan Rodgers. He can play anywhere across the back four.

The problem for Charles has been competition on the south coast. He has a contract at St Mary's until 2027 but he