Leeds expected to return for Shea Charles after £20m opening bid rejected | OneFootball

Leeds United are expected to return with an improved bid for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles after an initial approach was rejected.

Reports over the weekend suggested a £20m opening offer. The Sun reports that talks are continuing and a deal is considered close despite the first bid being turned down, with Southampton seeking a higher fee.

Leeds lead the race for the 22-year-old despite rival interest, and are understood to be further advanced than other suitors at this stage.

Charles, the Northern Ireland international and former Manchester City academy product who also spent time on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, produced a breakout campaign, scoring six goals in 38 appearances across all competitions. He helped his side reach the FA Cup semi-finals and the play-off final.

Frustration around the 'Spygate' situation and being denied a chance to play for promotion has hastened the likely departure of several Southampton players, and Charles was always expected to play in the top flight this season.

The exact gap in valuations is unclear, but Leeds' interest is firm and they intend to find an agreement if possible. The Whites have tracked Charles since Southampton’s play-off promotion win over Leeds three years ago.

Source: Leeds Live