Premier League giants Manchester City are reportedly “making progress” in their move for Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles with “discussions heading in the right direction” over a summer transfer.
The 20-year-old is one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in Europe having racked up 27 league appearances for the Owls alongside cementing his spot as Northern Ireland’s number one.
Charles possesses many desirable attributes for a modern-day shot-stopper, including a superb range of passing and being comfortable with the ball at his feet.
Northern Ireland’s Pierce Charles. (Photo by William Cherry/Presseye)placeholder image
Northern Ireland’s Pierce Charles. (Photo by William Cherry/Presseye)
With England’s James Trafford set to depart after just one season, City are now searching for an alternative to challenge Gianluigi Donnarumma at the Etihad Stadium.
Previous reports suggested City have been tracking Charles “for months” – and Sky Sports have now issued an update, saying “there is currently an optimism that a deal could be agreed with those discussions heading in the right direction”.
City recently appointed Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola’s successor and on Thursday confirmed they’ve reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest over the signing of England international Elliot Anderson.
They could now turn their attention to finalising a switch for Charles, who brought his international cap tally to 12 after featuring in both of June’s friendlies against Guinea and France.
Charles impressed during Northern Ireland’s World Cup play-off semi-final defeat to Italy in March, leading to praise from boss Michael O’Neill.
“The saves that he made at key moments, but his decision making was excellent,” he said. “He doesn’t bring any pressure onto his back three, which I think is rare in a goalkeeper of that age.
"He’s got a brilliant temperament. There were great performances all over the pitch, but Pierce in particular had a very strong performance.”
A transfer to City would likely see Charles feature in the EFL Cup and FA Cup – Trafford was mainly limited to cup appearances after the signing of Italian superstar Donnarumma, who was a mainstay in the Premier League and Champions League.
Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen previously said the Owls would do everything in their power to keep Charles as they target promotion from League One, but it now appears the shot-stopper will be on the move.
"He is a fantastic goalkeeper,” said Pedersen in April. “Normally we speak about Pierce being top with his feet, today how also showed how mentally strong he is and how strong he is defensively.
"I think there's nobody that has doubt for his potential.
"He has a big, big future, that's why we are really, really proud and really happy that he's a part of Sheffield Wednesday. We will do everything we can to keep him for the future.”