SAINTS manager Russell Martin insisted there is "not a chance" he would sanction a Shea Charles departure without reinforcements.

The 20 year old has been linked with interest from Scottish giants Celtic on a loan or with an option to buy him permanently.

Former Manchester City youth captain Charles has played in every pre-season match for Martin this season as backup to Flynn Downes.

Celtic reportedly could make a separate move for Charles or use the Northern Ireland international as a makeweight in a Matt O'Riley deal.

Asked if he would let him leave, Martin told the Daily Echo: "With the squad as it is right now, not a chance. We need some reinforcements, I think.

Celtic reportedly want to sign midfielder Shea CharlesCeltic reportedly want to sign midfielder Shea Charles (Image: Stuart Martin)

"Ben Brereton Diaz is a good one but we need to make sure we get a few more in the building before the start (of the Premier League) if we can.

"Obviously, the transfer window stupidly, annoyingly and madly goes on until the end of August, which gives all the bigger clubs a massive advantage.

"It is what it is. So, yeah, we will bring some people in and assess the situation - but Shea was good tonight (against Oxford United)."

Charles made 32 appearances in the Championship last season, following a £12million move from Man City under former director of football Jason Wilcox.

Midfielder Charles played 60 minutes in Southampton's 2-0 defeat at Oxford United in their fourth pre-season friendly of summer.