TransferBBC SportUnverified source· 11 Aug 2026
Shea Charles becomes Northern Ireland's most expensive player
From Manchester City's academy to a £30m Premier League move, Shea Charles's rise is remarkable.
S. Charles
player
Player
Shea Charles
Position
Midfielder
From
Southampton
To
Fulham
Fee
£30m
What happened. Shea Charles completed a £30m transfer from Southampton to Fulham, making him the most expensive Northern Ireland player in history.
- Charles came through Manchester City's academy, joining at age seven.
- He helped City win the Premier League 2 title in 2021-22.
- He made his international debut before any senior club appearance.
“I have never seen anyone better on the ball than this kid.”
— Gerard Lyttle
Charles returns to the Premier League after his long path from City's youth setup.
In this story
Fulham
Northern IrelandMore to read
BBC Sport
Dallas backs Charles to thrive at Fulham
The Guardian
Transfer roundup: Fulham agree £30m deal for Charles, Chalobah checks in at Como
BBC Sport
Fulham agree £30m fee for Southampton's Charles
Daily Mail Football
Fulham agree £30million deal for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles - after beating off fierce competition from Premier League rivals Leeds
