Fulham officially sign Shea Charles

Manchester United’s summer recruitment has continued to attract plenty of attention, with Jason Wilcox playing an important role in shaping the club’s plans.

The Reds have been linked with a number of players across different positions as Michael Carrick continues to build his squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

One player who previously emerged on United’s radar was Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, although a move to Old Trafford never materialised.

The Northern Ireland international had insisted earlier this year that his focus remained firmly on Southampton despite speculation surrounding his future.

“At the moment I am focused on Southampton and the next campaign.”

Shea Charles officially signs for Fulham

Shea Charles has now officially moved on, with Fulham confirming, via their website, the signing of the versatile 22-year-old from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.

The midfielder has signed a five-year contract at Craven Cottage running until June 2031, with Fulham holding an option to extend the agreement by another 12 months. He will wear the No.19 shirt.

Charles’ move also has a direct Manchester United connection, with Jason Wilcox having overseen his original Southampton transfer from Manchester City in 2023.

The Saints paid an initial £10.5million to bring him to the south coast, with Wilcox serving as the club’s director of football at the time.

He has since taken up a key role at United.

Leeds United had also tried to prise Charles away from Southampton, with the Saints rejecting a £20m proposal for the midfielder.

That Leeds connection adds another layer to the move for United supporters, with the Reds set to face the Yorkshire club in a pre-season friendly tomorrow.

Charles will now begin a new chapter in west London, where he will be hoping to establish himself in the Premier League after making his name at Southampton.

Speaking to FFCtv after completing the transfer, Charles said, “I’m buzzing to finally get it over the line. The Club has got a really good foundation, from the bottom to the top really.

“It’s a great club, with a really good vision – the Manager explained that to me. To be here is a massive privilege.

“I hope to really kickstart my Premier League career. At such a good club as well, it’s perfect for me, and hopefully perfect for the fans as well.”