Fulham ‘in advanced negotiations’ for Shea Charles as Leeds risk missing out | OneFootball

Leeds United could miss out on Shea Charles, with Fulham ‘in advanced negotiations’ to sign the Southampton midfielder, according to Sky Germany. Talks are said to be close on a fee of around €30m (£25.7m), and personal terms are almost agreed.

Leeds targeted Charles last month and lodged two bids, the latter above £20m, both rejected. With talks stalling, the club left a final offer on the table a fortnight ago and will not go higher. Their valuation is below Southampton’s reported £30m asking price.

Crystal Palace and Fulham were also linked in recent weeks, and a switch to one of Leeds’ Premier League rivals could now proceed.

If Fulham complete the deal, it would follow their combined £42.8m move for Real Madrid youngsters Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios. The Cottagers have already lost Raul Jimenez and Harry Wilson on free transfers, with Wilson joining Leeds.

Leeds have not yet turned seriously to alternative midfield targets, with other positions prioritised. Since stepping back on Charles, they have advanced a club-record £40m move for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.

Leeds have five senior central midfielders, four currently fit with Ilia Gruev still recovering from a knee injury. Ethan Ampadu has signed a new four-year deal, while Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff have impressed in pre-season. Ao Tanaka has struggled at times but remains a useful option.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”