Southampton sign Shea Charles and Ryan Manning
Ryan Manning in action against Germany Credit: Michael P Ryan (ETPhotos)
Southampton have completed the signings of Shea Charles from Manchester City and Ryan Manning from Swansea City.
Nineteen-year-old Charles, who can serve as both a midfielder and a centre-back, inked a four-year contract with the Saints.
This marks Southampton's second acquisition this summer, following closely on the heels of Manning's arrival earlier this week.
Charles, a Northern Ireland international, made his Premier League debut in City’s final game last season against Brentford.
Southampton manager Russell Martin expressed his confidence in Charles' potential to excel in the club, saying, “Shea is a very talented, intelligent and mature young player with great potential to develop his game with us."
Charles echoed Martin's enthusiasm, stating, “I feel like the way the manager’s going to play will really suit me, and obviously some of the players that I know have done very well here last season in the Premier League, so there’s no reason why I can’t come in and do similar things."
In addition to Charles, the Saints welcomed 27-year-old left-back Ryan Manning on a free transfer after his contract with Swansea City expired.
A Republic of Ireland international, Manning has amassed over 200 appearances in the Championship division throughout his career. He now reunites with former Swans boss Russell Martin at St Mary’s.
Expressing his joy at the signing, Manning said, "I'm absolutely delighted to be here. I'm over the moon and I can't wait to get started. With the gaffer coming here, knowing his style of football and how he wants his team to play, it felt like a perfect fit for me."
