Race for Sheffield Wednesday talent heats up as top Premier League club joins Celtic and Rangers

A major transfer battle could be brewing this summer, with Manchester City reportedly ready to challenge both Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C. for the signing of a rising Sheffield Wednesday F.C. talent.

While Celtic and Rangers regularly compete for transfer targets due to their similar standing in Scottish football, going up against one of Europe’s elite clubs is far less common.

According to reports from talkSPORT, Manchester City are considering a move to bring back young goalkeeper Pierce Charles during the upcoming transfer window.

City are believed to be planning for a possible goalkeeping reshuffle, with doubts surrounding the future of James Trafford after limited opportunities since his return to the club. Trafford’s place in the squad became more uncertain following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, which pushed him down the pecking order.

With managerial changes expected following the end of Pep Guardiola’s era and uncertainty over how the next boss, reportedly Enzo Maresca, will reshape the squad, City may soon be in the market for another goalkeeper. Donnarumma is still expected to remain first choice, leaving room for a backup option.

That has reportedly led City back to Charles, who previously spent time in the club’s academy setup before moving on. The 20-year-old shot-stopper is expected to leave Sheffield Wednesday following the club’s relegation to League One and has attracted interest from multiple clubs.

Charles made 20 Championship appearances last season and continues to be viewed as one of the brightest young goalkeeping prospects around. However, despite Manchester City’s interest, Celtic and Rangers may hold an advantage in the race if they can offer the promise of regular first-team football.