Shea Charles latest as Leeds United 'close in' on Southampton's ex-Sheffield Wednesday star after £20m bid
The latest on Southampton’s ex-Sheffield Wednesday star Shea Charles amid Leeds United interest
Leeds United are reportedly closing in on the capture of Shea Charles - despite falling short of Southampton’s valuation.
The 22-year-old, who enjoyed a stellar 2024/25 season on loan in South Yorkshire with Sheffield Wednesday, returned to Southampton last year.
He was a key figure in their run to the Championship play-offs before the Saints were removed amid the ‘spygate’ saga.
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Shea Charles state of play
Reports over the weekend indicated Leeds had lodged a £20m offer for the midfielder, who is seemingly ready for Premier League football.
According to The Sun’s Jack Rosser, a deal is close to being struck despite Southampton wanting more than the mooted figure.
Posting on X, he said: “Leeds closing in on the signing of Shea Charles from Southampton. Southampton want more than initial £20m bid but talks continuing and a deal thought to be close.”
The Athletic, meanwhile, have claimed Leeds’ initial offer has been knocked back.
Shea Charles’ career path
Charles was nurtured within Manchester City’s academy and made his first-team debut in a 1-0 loss to Brentford in May 2023. He moved to Southampton for greater exposure to senior football and played a bit-part role in promotion from the Championship in his maiden campaign.
He appeared from the bench as the Saints edged past Leeds United in the play-off final at Wembley, but was loaned out in August of the same year.
His exploits with Wednesday ensured he returned to Southampton, who had been relegated from the top flight in his absence, as a starter.
Last season, the Northern Ireland international registered six goals across 38 appearances in all competitions at club level.
Charles is the older brother of Wednesday goalkeeper Pierce, who Leeds have also been credited with interest in.
Leeds United’s midfield department
If he does seal a move to Elland Road, doubt will be cast upon the futures of some central midfielders already in Daniel Farke’s squad.
The middle of the park is already a crowded department in LS11, with Farke having Ethan Ampadu, Anton Stach, Ao Tanaka, Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff at his disposal.