Leeds face competition as two Premier League rivals ‘to join’ Shea Charles race after £23m-plus bid | OneFootball

Leeds United could face increased competition for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, with Crystal Palace and Fulham interested, Sky Sports reports. Leeds are said to have tabled two offers, the latter believed to be £23m plus add-ons, and talks remain ongoing.

Sky Sports adds that neither club has contacted Southampton yet, leaving Leeds ahead procedurally. The 49ers Enterprises ownership prefers to keep negotiations private, with leaks seen as weakening their position.

“At the moment I am focused on Southampton and the next campaign. Obviously we’ll see what happens when we go back into camp or pre-season. I’m really looking forward to going back to Southampton.” He said that last month, via talkSPORT.

The outlet also reports that Southampton value Charles at £30m and describe the former Manchester City academy graduate as a top priority for Leeds.

Charles has one year left on his Southampton deal and the club hold a further one-year option. Their failure to win promotion from the second tier leaves them vulnerable to interest in key players.

He made 38 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring six with two assists. Still only 22, he has 35 Northern Ireland caps and has captained his country. A Manchester City academy product alongside his goalkeeper brother Pierce, City are believed to have matching buyback rights and a sell-on clause.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk