Leeds face competition as Palace and Fulham ‘join race’ for Shea Charles | OneFootball

Leeds United could face increased competition for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles. According to Sky Sports, Crystal Palace and Fulham are interested, although neither has contacted Southampton, leaving Leeds ahead after submitting two offers, the latest reported at about £23m plus add-ons over a week ago.

Talks remain ongoing between the clubs, and Leeds have declined to provide a running commentary. 49ers Enterprises prefer to keep negotiations private to avoid weakening their position.

Palace had been linked while Daichi Kamada’s future was uncertain after his contract expired. The Japan international has since signed a new one-year deal.

“At the moment I am focused on Southampton and the next campaign,” Charles said last month. “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.” The quotes were carried by talkSPORT, which also reported that Southampton value the midfielder at £30m and labelled him a top priority for Leeds.

Charles has one year left on his deal, with Southampton holding a one-year extension option. He made 38 appearances last season, scoring six goals with two assists, and at 22 has 35 Northern Ireland caps, having captained his country. Manchester City are believed to have matching buyback rights and a sell-on clause. After missing out on promotion, Southampton could be vulnerable to interest in key players.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk