Manchester United to capitalise on Southampton’s Spygate scandal by pursuing deal for top midfielder

Manchester United to capitalise on Southampton’s Spygate scandal by pursuing deal for top midfielder Manchester United could capitalise on Southampton’s Spygate scandal by pursuing a deal for Shea Charles, per the Mirror . The Saints’ appeal against being kicked out of the Championship play-off final for spying was rejected by the EFL on Wednesday. Southampton’s expulsion could force them to part ways with their key players this summer.

United look to take advantage of the uncertainty at the Hampshire club and sign Charles for a bargain fee. Michael Carrick’s side seek to add at least two midfielders to the squad, with Casemiro leaving at the end of the season. Manuel Ugarte’s future at Old Trafford has also been a source of speculation, with the Uruguayan struggling for form and regular playing time.

Charles has had an excellent 2025-26 season with Southampton. Despite being sidelined for over two months with a hamstring injury, the 22-year-old made 38 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals. He mainly operates as a defensive midfielder, but can also play in central defence or at right-back.

United have been linked with Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Sandro Tonali and Aurelien Tchouameni. But a deal for any of them will likely cost them a significant transfer fee. Charles could be signed in a bargain deal, as he has just a year remaining on his current contract at St Mary’s Stadium.