Southampton defender Charlie Taylor has been told he is free to leave the club, with several Championship sides monitoring his situation.
The 31-year-old left-back has struggled for game time since moving to St Mary’s and could exit before the window closes.
Championship Clubs On Alert
According to an exclusive report from SportsBoom, Taylor has been informed he can find a new club after making just three appearances this year. Norwich City showed early interest in the window, while Hull City explored the possibility of a permanent deal having previously targeted him on loan in January. Middlesbrough are also understood to be weighing up a move, with boss Rob Edwards eager to add a left-sided defender to his squad.
Taylor is desperate for regular football after slipping down the pecking order under Russell Martin, who has opted for other options in recent months. With the Saints focused on reshaping their squad, the former Burnley man looks likely to move on.
Frustrating Spell at St Mary’s
Taylor joined Southampton last summer following Burnley’s relegation from the Premier League. He had declined a new contract at Turf Moor, bringing an end to a seven-year stay where he made more than 200 appearances and helped the Clarets lift the Championship title in 2022/23.
His move to the south coast was intended as a fresh challenge, but the experienced full-back has been unable to establish himself. He managed just three league starts last season and has struggled for consistency amid fierce competition for places.
It is understood Southampton would even consider terminating his deal to facilitate an exit, ensuring Taylor can find the game time he is craving.
Career to Date
Taylor’s career began at Leeds United, where he came through the academy system and gained experience with loan spells at Bradford City, York City, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Fleetwood Town. He broke into the Leeds first team in 2015 and was named their Player of the Year in the 2015/16 campaign.
In 2017 he signed a four-year contract with Burnley and became a mainstay in their defence, featuring in both the Premier League and Championship. His versatility, composure and defensive reliability earned him over 200 appearances for the club before his eventual departure.
Now 31, Taylor is eager to return north, with the Championship his most likely destination. His experience and pedigree are expected to attract interest from promotion-chasing clubs in need of a dependable left-back.
Writer’s View
Taylor’s availability presents a genuine opportunity for clubs in the second tier. Despite a disappointing spell at Southampton, his track record at Burnley and Leeds underlines his quality at Championship level. Norwich, Hull and Middlesbrough all represent logical destinations, with his experience and leadership likely to be seen as valuable assets.
For Southampton, moving Taylor on would allow Russell Martin to streamline his squad, while for Taylor himself, a return to regular football could revitalise the closing stages of his career. A deal looks increasingly likely before the deadline as both player and club seek a fresh start.
