Their Best Player by Far, Sheffield United Tipped to Humiliate Sheffield Wednesday with Shea Charles Raid
The Terrace Talk series from Football League World (FLW) delivers personal insights and opinions from their fan pundits on the latest football news, including breaking stories, team updates, player movements, and managerial decisions. In the latest buzz, Sheffield United have been urged to deliver a double blow to their cross-city rivals, Sheffield Wednesday, by pursuing Southampton’s Shea Charles—a player whose recall from the Owls has already caused a stir.
Sheffield United Eye Shea Charles Amid Southampton Recall Drama
Sheffield United are looking to strengthen their squad before the winter transfer window closes on February 3, as Chris Wilder seeks reinforcements to boost the Blades’ Championship promotion campaign. Backed by their new American ownership group, COH Sports, led by Steven Rosen and Helmy Eltoukhy, the club now has the funds to target high-profile additions.
The Blades are closing in on a double swoop for Leicester City striker Tom Cannon and Southampton forward Ben Brereton Diaz, who impressed during a loan spell at Bramall Lane in the Premier League last season. Additionally, Wilder has confirmed the club expects to complete deals for five targets, which could include the likes of former loan star Tommy Doyle, Hamza Choudhury, Jonjoe Kenny, Michael Keane, and Andrew Omobamidele. However, a new name has emerged on the radar: Southampton’s Shea Charles.
The 21-year-old midfielder’s potential move to United has sparked intrigue, especially as he spent the first half of the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. Southampton recently exercised their recall option for Charles, much to the dismay of Wednesday fans and chairman Dejphon Chansiri, who revealed the news in a contentious fan forum. This decision has left the Owls reeling, as Charles had been one of their standout players in a challenging season.
A Promising Talent in Demand
Shea Charles, who played a vital role in Southampton’s promotion last season, has been a shining light for Wednesday during a difficult campaign. The Northern Ireland international has earned widespread praise for his performances, making 24 appearances and establishing himself as a key player. Despite being recalled by Southampton, there are suggestions he could be on the move again before the window closes, with several Championship clubs reportedly interested.
According to The Star, Sheffield United had shown interest in Charles during the summer but ultimately opted against pursuing him due to their limited loan slots. Now, with midfield injuries piling up—Vini Souza, Tom Davies, and Ollie Arblaster are all sidelined—the Blades may reignite their interest.
Fans Weigh In on Potential Signing
FLW spoke to Blades fan pundit Jimmy from the Blades Ramble YouTube channel, who believes Charles would be an excellent addition to United’s midfield. Despite his association with Wednesday, Jimmy sees the move as both a boost to United’s promotion push and a way to intensify the rivalry with their Steel City neighbors.
“Shea Charles would be a great signing for Sheffield United,” Jimmy said. “We’re in desperate need of a central midfielder, and someone with his quality would fit in perfectly. He’s not just a signing to wind up Wednesday—it’s genuine interest that dates back to the summer. They beat us to him, but now we have a chance to get one over them and bolster our squad.”
Jimmy also acknowledged the possibility of alternative signings like Hamza Choudhury or Tommy Doyle but emphasized that Charles would be a welcome addition. “He’s been Wednesday’s best player by far this season. If we can bring him in and strengthen our team while leaving a bitter taste up the road at Hillsborough, that’s a win-win for us.”
The Bigger Picture
While Charles is just one of several names linked to Bramall Lane, his potential arrival could be a statement of intent for Wilder’s side. The Blades are firmly focused on returning to the Premier League, and signing a player of Charles’ caliber—especially from under the nose of their fiercest rivals—would underline their ambitions.
As the January transfer window heats up, Sheffield United fans will be watching closely to see if the club can pull off this audacious move and further solidify their promotion credentials.
