Everton Scouting Southampton Midfielder Shea Charles

The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international has impressed in the Championship this season.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 5:50am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a soccer player in motion, their form broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of muted colors.A cubist interpretation of a young midfielder's dynamic movement and positioning on the pitch.Sheffield Today

Everton are reportedly interested in signing Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, who has been a key player for the Saints this season. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international has impressed with his ability to evade pressure and has also contributed four goals across all competitions, including a goal that knocked out Arsenal in the FA Cup. Everton are said to be scouting Charles as they look to find a successor to veteran defensive midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye.

Why it matters

Everton are in need of a new defensive midfielder this summer, with Gueye getting older and Tim Iroegbunam struggling to make an impact. Charles fits the profile of the ideal successor to Gueye in the Everton engine room, and the club is always open to shopping in the second division for Premier League-ready talent.

The details

Charles has made 24 appearances in the Championship this season, winning 4.0 ground duels per 90 (59% success rate). He spent last season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, where he won the club's player of the year award and was also nominated for the Championship Young Player of the Year. His mix of composure under pressure, defensive bite, and knack for decisive moments suggests he is ready to make the jump to the Premier League.

  • Charles left on loan to Sheffield Wednesday last season.
  • This season, Charles has made 24 appearances in the Championship for Southampton.

The players

Shea Charles

A 22-year-old Northern Ireland international midfielder who has been a key player for Southampton in the Championship this season.

Idrissa Gana Gueye

A veteran defensive midfielder for Everton who is getting older and in need of a successor.

Tim Iroegbunam

A young midfielder for Everton who has struggled to impress and make an impact.

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The takeaway

This potential signing represents a calculated gamble for Everton, as they look to build smartly and find a long-term successor to Gueye in the defensive midfield role. Charles' mix of skills and experience in the Championship suggest he could be ready to make the jump to the Premier League, and a season or two learning alongside Gueye could help sharpen his positional awareness and discipline.