Leeds face transfer test as Crystal Palace and Fulham ‘join race’ for Shea Charles after £23m-plus offer | OneFootball

Leeds United could face added competition for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles after fresh Premier League interest. Sky Sports reports Crystal Palace and Fulham are keen, although neither has contacted Southampton, with Leeds ahead after lodging bids and holding talks.

Leeds’ pursuit has run through the summer, with two offers tabled for the Northern Ireland international, the second understood to be worth £23m plus add-ons.

The 49ers Enterprises ownership prefers to keep negotiations private, and the club are not providing a running commentary to avoid weakening their position.

TalkSPORT reports Southampton value Charles at £30m and describes him as a top priority for Leeds, reflected by those bids.

Last month Charles told talkSPORT he was focused on Southampton and the next campaign. He said matters would be clearer on returning for pre-season and that he looked forward to going back.

Charles has one year left on his deal, with Southampton holding a one-year extension option. Their failure to win promotion leaves them exposed to interest in key players.

The 22-year-old made 38 appearances last season, scoring six goals with two assists, and he has 35 Northern Ireland caps, having captained his country.

A Manchester City academy graduate, he came through alongside younger brother Pierce Charles. City are believed to hold matching buyback rights and a sell-on clause on any Southampton sale.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk