Leeds United submit 'improved bid' for Southampton's former Sheffield Wednesday loanee Shea Charles
Leeds United have reportedly made another move to sign a Championship star
Leeds United are said to have submitted an improved bid for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.
The 22-year-old played a starring role in Southampton’s run into the Championship play-offs last term, establishing himself among the division’s most impressive operators.
He helped the Saints defeat Middlesbrough at the semi-final stage before the club were removed from the competition amid the ‘spygate’ saga.
Leeds United make ‘improved bid’ for Shea Charles
Widespread reports have indicated an offer of £20m from Leeds has been knocked back by Southampton. However, Mail Online have now claimed Leeds have returned with a bid worth up to £25m.
It remains to be seen whether Southampton’s resolve can be weakened and Leeds will be hoping the asking price does not go too high.
If Leeds can strike a deal to sign the 35-cap Northern Ireland international, they will be landing one of the most exciting talents below Premier League level.
Charles is no stranger to Yorkshire having spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. He thrived under the tutelage of then-Owls boss Danny Rohl, ensuring he returned to his parent club as a starter rather than a fringe player.
Southampton signed Charles in the summer of 2023, less than two months after he made his Premier League debut for Manchester City. He has since amassed 76 appearances for the club, scoring six goals.
Verdict on Shea Charles
In a recent interview with The Yorkshire Post, ex-Leeds winger Robert Snodgras claimed Charles would add “value” to Daniel Farke’s midfield.
He said: “He’s a good player who can add value to the squad, especially in the midfield area. Games are tough in the Premier League, so you have to ensure you have the squad to last.
“Leeds needed the time to build up a squad when they were last relegated from the Premier League and last year, came back stronger and looked comfortable all season in staying in the league.
“This is credit to the manager, and the recruitment team who did the work early with transfers to get the squad to play last season. Now it’s the same for me in adding quality to the squad to continue to stay in the Premier League.”