Leeds United ‘among admirers’ of Southampton midfielder Shea Charles | OneFootball

Leeds United are among the admirers of Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, according to the Daily Mail. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international already has 35 caps and more than 100 league appearances.

Charles played a major role in Saints’ FA Cup run and promotion push last season, making 33 league and play-off outings. He scored the goal that knocked Arsenal out in the quarter-finals and finished with six club goals, one winning the Championship Goal of the Month for March.

For his country he is viewed as a key figure by Michael O’Neill and has captained the side on occasion. He has eight international assists, including the cross for Northern Ireland’s goal in the recent 2-1 defeat by France, and impressed throughout.

Signed from Manchester City in 2023 in a deal worth up to £15m, Charles has one year left on his contract, with Saints holding an option for a further year. Southampton’s resolve is expected to be tested this summer by Premier League interest, and Leeds’ admiration has yet to progress.

Leeds have clear areas to address, including left-back, where Gabriel Gudmundsson is the only senior left-footed option for Daniel Farke. Up front, extra depth is also a priority and Farke has spoken of the need for more individual quality.

Often used in a deep-lying role, Charles has also filled in at centre-back, which would bolster competition and cover for captain Ethan Ampadu. He can operate as an eight, has taken playmaking responsibility for O’Neill’s side, and at six ft two ins brings size, aerial strength and range.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk