Charles becomes most expensive North Irish transfer ever

Shea Charles is now the most expensive North Irish footballer ever transferred. Fulham has paid around €35 million (including bonuses) to land the 22-year-old defensive midfielder from Southampton, according to L'Équipe.

The previous record was held by Jamal Lewis, who joined Newcastle for €16.5 million. Charles, developed at Manchester City where he made his debut under Pep Guardiola, arrives at the Cottagers after three seasons in the Championship. He has signed a five-year deal with an optional extra year.

Southampton made a solid profit on the deal, having signed him three years ago for €12.25 million. The North Irish international (35 caps, 1 goal) joins a Fulham side managed by Álvaro Arbeloa, who has already brought in Gonzalo García and César Palacios this window.