Josh Edwards

Tue 7 April 2026 14:10, UK

Shea Charles has emerged as a summer transfer target for Everton.

Having been the hero for Southampton in their FA Cup triumph against Arsenal, Charles is being talked about a lot now, and not just by supporters.

Everton have been linked with a move for the Saints midfielder, who has played an influential role in their season, which is looking increasingly likely to end in promotion.

They aren’t the only Premier League side to be linked, though, with several other teams having been mooted with an interest.

However, if Everton want to sign Charles this summer, they may have to fend off interest from Man City, should that emerge.

Man City clause could scupper Everton’s Shea Charles deal

With Idrissa Gueye ageing and a lack of options elsewhere in midfield, Charles would be an excellent addition for the Toffees.

However, their chances of bringing him to Hill Dickinson may hinge on a decision made at Man City.

Pep Guardiola’s side are believed to have included a buy-back clause in the deal that saw him move to Southampton back in 2023, while also having first refusal on the player.

It’s a similar situation to that of James Trafford last summer, where it looked like a move to Newcastle was close before City swooped in and acted upon their clause.

As of now, it’s unclear how much City would have to pay to bring Charles back to the Etihad, but there is every chance they will activate the clause purely to sell him for profit.

What would Charles bring to Everton?

If successful in their attempts to lure Charles to Merseyside, it would be a much better signing than many would be aware of, at least initially.

The Northern Ireland international is a defensive midfielder by trade, but his ability to progress with the ball via passing or dribbling is also a huge strength of his.

That nature of his game is certainly missing at Everton, and with time on his side, Charles would only bet better.