A departure from S6 has now been confirmed...
Pierce Charles could end up being Sheffield Wednesday’s record sale.
The 20-year-old goalkeeper, capped 12 times by Northern Ireland, has signed a five-year contract at Manchester City, the club that released him earlier in his career. He will play his football in the Championship next season after joining QPR on loan.
The Owls said the fee could become the highest total ever received by the club for a player, subject agreed performance-related conditions.
As reported by The Wednesday Word, The Star shares the understanding that The Owls can expect a minimum £5m return on the deal, with £3m paid up-front. Should Charles go on to tick off all the achievements on a bonus structure, a total fee somewhere in the region of £10m is possible.
Owls sporting director, Simon Wilson, said: “At 20, the quality and consistency of Pierce’s performances have naturally attracted interest from elite clubs throughout the last 12 months. We engaged with him to secure his long-term future but understood his desire to take this opportunity and with one year remaining on his contract, this agreement protects the long-term interests of our club.
“Although we are disappointed to lose him from our group, Pierce’s story is one that should be celebrated by all who played a part in his journey – from his acquisition to his development within our academy and first team. He is an example we hope many players can replicate in the future and we wish him well at Manchester City, who we continue to build an exceptional relationship with.”
Confirming the transfer, City said: “We are pleased to have completed the signing of goalkeeper Pierce Charles from Sheffield Wednesday on a five-year-deal He will now join Championship side Queens Park Rangers on loan for the 2026/27 season.”
And QPR announced: “The 20-year-old goalkeeper heads to W12 straight after completing a permanent transfer from Sheffield Wednesday to Manchester City. Charles, who actually began his career in the City academy before joining the Owls five years ago, has excelled during his time at Hillsborough, ultimately attracting the attentions of his former club. Now he is excited to spend a year in W12 with Rangers. “
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