Leeds consider Shea Charles as age profile shifts and question over Ilia Gruev raised | OneFootball

Leeds United are in talks with Southampton over Shea Charles, signalling a shift from last summer’s age profile. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder would suit both present and future.

According to Leeds Live, discussions remain active and rejected bids would not mean talks have ended. Southampton are said to value Charles at more than £20m.

Charles has 35 Northern Ireland caps and 121 senior appearances. He captained Manchester City’s Under-23s to the 2021/22 Premier League 2 title at 18, scored in cups against Arsenal and Liverpool, and hit an extra-time semi-final winner versus Middlesbrough. Southampton were then removed from the final following the Spygate scandal, and a number of players are expected to seek exits this summer as a result, though Charles looked a likely Premier League mover regardless.

His pursuit could either strengthen the midfield pivot as planned business or reflect opportunism. Interest in Harry Wilson and Julian Brandt, Wilson turns 30 next season and Brandt is already 30, also hints at looser age criteria.

Any capture would cast light on existing options, notably Ilia Gruev. Unlike Ao Tanaka, who considered an exit in January, Gruev is a defensive midfielder and has one year left on his deal.

There is a case to raise midfield numbers from five to six for Premier League demands after absences left Leeds stretched. Gruev started 11 straight games and is a Daniel Farke favourite.

Another renewal for the 2025 Bulgarian player of the year looks unlikely, so this summer may be the only chance to recoup, and possibly profit on, the £5m paid in 2023. He has said his focus is on the Premier League and that he is really enjoying his time at Leeds, and there is currently no indication he will be put up for sale.

Whether Charles arrives remains hypothetical, and the motive behind the move would shape Leeds’ stance on Gruev this summer.

Source: Leeds Live