Sources: Charles expected to leave Southampton after confirmed news
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Credit: Imago Fri 22 May 2026 18:00, UK Shea Charles looks likely to leave Southampton after their Championship promotion hopes were dashed due to the spygate scandal.Charles was one of the Saints’ standouts as their fine form under Tonda Eckert saw Middlesbrough beaten on their way to the play-off final.Southampton were accused of spying on Boro’s training sessions ahead of their play-off semi, however, and an independent panel appointed by the EFL threw them out of the competition earlier this week.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, the fallout caused by Southampton’s expulsion is likely to see Charles move on this summer.He has been linked to several Premier League sides ahead of the transfer window, with a number of the Saints’ top stars set to leave due to a damaged relationship with under-fire boss Eckert.Shea Charles moving closer to Southampton exit after spygate sagaSources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Nottingham Forest admire Charles and could move to sign him this summer. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Southampton’s spygate blunder has boosted their chances of sealing his signature, especially as recent reports have claimed that some players are considering taking legal action against the south coast club.Appearances31Goal contributions5Chances created per 901.16Duels won per 906.36Aerial duels won per 901.55Fouls won per 901.85Defensive contributions per 905.59Charles’ 2025-26 Championship statsSpeaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “I’m sure there’ll be a number of clubs looking at Southampton’s players, including Shea Charles.“He is a proven player and has done really well for Southampton this season, as he did last season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.
He’s also played on the big stage for Northern Ireland as well.“It’s a really unsettling time for Southampton right now with everything that is going on with spygate. Now that they have had the chance to win promotion taken away from them, it’s inevitable that they will end up losing some players.
“Charles is likely to be one of those, because he’s got one year left on his contract at Southampton as well so this could be their last opportunity to really cash in on the midfielder.”Leo Scienza also likely to leave Southampton as Aston Villa eye moveScienza is highly regarded as one of the best attackers in the second tier after registering seven goals and 10 assists in 37 league appearances this season.Prior to spygate, sources exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Scienza is keen on joining a Premier League side ahead of next season.Aston Villa, Everton and Tottenham have each been linked to his services, and much like Charles, they will each fancy their chances of signing him after the latest drama at Southampton. 😇 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Saints Insider Access Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the South Coast.