Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Wed 20 May 2026 8:10, UK

Shea Charles would be an excellent signing for Rangers, but questions have been raised over whether the money involved could be met by the Gers.

The Southampton star has previously worked under Danny Rohl at Sheffield Wednesday, and he would know exactly what the German required from him in midfield.

As the Saints chased Premier League promotion, a move for the Northern Irishman looked to be increasingly unlikely.

After being a key player in their promotion push, the 22-year-old may have wanted to remain with the club for a top-flight campaign.

However, a transfer for Charles could now be boosted after the latest developments emerging out of England over the last few days.

Why Rangers could get Shea Charles discount from Southampton

Southampton have been involved in plenty of drama over the last couple of weeks, thanks to the emergence of “spygate”.

The conclusion of the EFL’s investigation has now meant that the Saints have been expelled from the Championship’s play-offs, with Middlesbrough reinstated.

When it comes to an exit for Charles, the English club could be more desperate to generate funds, with another season in England’s second tier to come.

Additionally, further financial impact could yet hit the St Mary’s outfit, with The Athletic reporting that the players are considering taking up legal action due to a potential loss of earnings resulting from their play-off expulsion.

This could certainly leave the South Coast club in a perilous situation financially, and their negotiating power with their players has dramatically dwindled.

Rangers may have previously been put off a £20million move for Charles, but with those aforementioned circumstances, a reduction in price due to the situation may not be out of the question.

Shea Charles could still be Rangers’ most expensive transfer

Rangers’ record signing is still Tore Andre Flo after he made a £12m switch from Chelsea in the 2000-2001 season.

Even with a discount on the previous £20m price, Charles could certainly cost the Bears a record fee.

The Northern Irishman has proven himself in the Championship this season, and his ball-winning qualities in the middle of the pitch would be welcomed at Ibrox.

Despite the high fee, the Saints midfielder could still be worth chasing at that price tag. It remains to be seen if the Gers make their move for Charles.

However, the outcome of “spygate” could yet change once more with Southampton appealing their play-off expulsion.

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