Manchester City is progressing in advanced negotiations with Sheffield Wednesday to secure the transfer of 20-year-old Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Pierce Charles.
The 20-year-old is seen as a long-term understudy to Gianluigi Donnarumma, with City seeking a homegrown alternative to fill the void left by backup keeper James Trafford, who is expected to depart due to limited playtime.
Background and Interest
Charles previously developed through City's academy before joining Sheffield Wednesday in 2021. He has entered the final year of his contract following the club's relegation to League One.
The Northern Ireland senior number one has drawn widespread interest from clubs including Celtic, Rangers, and French outfit RC Strasbourg.
However, City has intensified its interest under newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill praised Charles after his performance in a World Cup play-off semi-final defeat against Italy.
"The saves that he made at key moments, but his decision making was excellent," O'Neill said.
O'Neill highlighted the composure of the shot-stopper, who recently brought his senior international cap tally to 12 after appearances against Guinea and France.
"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," O'Neill added.
Sheffield Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen expressed the club's desire to retain Charles for their promotion push.
"He is a fantastic goalkeeper," Pedersen said.
Pedersen emphasized that the club understood Charles' value and would fight to prevent his exit.
"We will do everything we can to keep him for the future," Pedersen stated.
Sporting director Simon Wilson acknowledged the challenge of competing with top-flight interest.
"These are young, ambitious guys that want to play at the top of their profession and sometimes you can't hold people back," Wilson said.
While formal transfer fees are yet to be finalized, Sky Sports reported growing optimism that a deal will be reached over the summer window.
