Manchester United could capitalise on Southampton's 'Spygate' controversy by pursuing a deal for Shea Charles. The Saints have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after the EFL confirmed they had violated rules regarding unauthorised filming of rival teams.
The governing body stated that Southampton acknowledged 'multiple breaches' of regulations by recording Middlesbrough, Oxford and Ipswich Town throughout the campaign. This led to their ejection from the Championship play-off final against Hull City.
Boro are now progressing to Wembley in their stead, while Southampton have also been handed a four-point deduction next term. The Saints have appealed the decision with a new independent disciplinary committee to meet on Wednesday evening.
Given these circumstances, United could step up their interest in Charles after the Mail reported in April that the club were monitoring the FA Cup hero. The 22-year-old netted the goal to knock out Arsenal in the quarter-finals and has also attracted interest from Premier League rivals Everton.
He was also the match-winner for Southampton against Middlesbrough in extra-time of their Championship play-off semi-final triumph. However, this strike now appears meaningless as the EFL IDC determined the Saints must stay in the second tier.
Charles has netted six goals and contributed two assists in 38 appearances this season and is valued at approximately £20million by the Saints, making him a more affordable option compared to the likes of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton.
While a top-flight return could have helped the club tighten their hold on key players, Southampton's probable continued presence in the Championship means their hand could be forced when it comes to transfer dealings this summer.
The young midfielder was brought in from Manchester City for £11m three years ago when United director of football Jason Wilcox was serving in that role for the Saints, having previously been City's academy director. At the time, Wilcox had high expectations for the then-teenager and snapped him up to fill the void left by the departing Romeo Lavia, who had moved on to Chelsea.
Scouts were in attendance as Charles shone for Northern Ireland in their World Cup play-off defeat to Italy in March. United are in the hunt for several midfielders this summer as Casemiro prepares to exit the club.
Manuel Ugarte is likewise anticipated to depart, with Nottingham Forest's Anderson and Newcastle's Sandro Tonali both featuring on their current transfer shortlist. However, Anderson carries a staggering £100m valuation from his club, while a £70m price tag has been placed on Tonali.
Charles sits at the opposite end of the budget spectrum for United and could prove to be an astute piece of business if Wilcox wants another reunion.
