Leeds United face potential blow with Crystal Palace 'hopeful' of Southampton star Shea Charles hijack
Leeds United could reportedly lose out on a target to Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace are reportedly hopeful of beating Leeds United to the signing of Southampton star Shea Charles.
Interest in the midfielder from Elland Road has been well-documented, with the Whites thought to have tabled bids for the 22-year-old.
Southampton have seemingly stood firm, keen to ensure they do not lose such a crucial figure without generous compensation.
Talk of interest from Leeds has been persistent, but Palace have now been linked with the Northern Ireland international.
Crystal Palace ‘hopeful’ of beating Leeds United to midfielder
According to Football Insider, the Eagles believe they can steal a march on Leeds and get Charles on board for the 2026/27 season.
The London club won the UEFA Conference League last season, which gave them entrance into next season’s Europa League. That is quite the carrot to dangle and Palace are said to be optimistic it will sway Charles.
Leeds are thought to have had two bids for Charles rejected, with Southampton reportedly valuing him at around £30m.
Manchester United have also been mooted as potential suitors, although he is believed to be far down their list of midfield targets.
Leeds United’s transfer market reality
Leeds retained their Premier League status last season, which has strengthened their hand in the transfer market. However, the harsh reality of the top flight is that there are many clubs able to offer more than the Whites can.
If the West Yorkshire club do miss out on Charles, they can take comfort in the fact their central midfield department is relatively well-stocked.
Influential captain Ethan Ampadu has penned a new long-term deal and manager Daniel Farke also has Anton Stach, Ao Tanaka, Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff at his disposal.
Tanaka’s return to England from World Cup duty will be earlier than he had hoped, as Japan have been eliminated at the round of 32 stage by Brazil.