Leeds United have submitted a third bid for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, according to reports from the Daily Mail. The offer, valued at £23 million with potential add-ons, represents an attempt to finally persuade Southampton to accept their proposal. Leeds initially offered £20 million, followed by a £23 million bid two weeks ago, both of which were rejected by the Saints.
Southampton are reportedly holding out for £30 million for the Northern Ireland international, whose contract at St Mary’s is due to expire in one year, though the club does have a one-year option to extend. However, following their failure to secure promotion to the Premier League and the subsequent fallout from the ‘Spygate’ scandal, Southampton are now more open to a sale. Charles himself is believed to be keen on a move to Elland Road, providing Leeds with a boost in negotiations.
Charles, 22, made 31 appearances for Southampton across all competitions last season, establishing himself as a regular in the team despite their relegation from the Premier League. He has earned 32 caps for Northern Ireland, demonstrating his international experience. The midfielder joined Southampton from Manchester City’s academy in 2020 and has steadily progressed through the ranks.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke is aiming to strengthen his squad ahead of a promotion push in the Championship next season. The 49ers Enterprises, the club’s owners, are reportedly determined to back Farke’s plans and are prepared to be ambitious in the transfer market. A source close to the club told Football Insider that Leeds “won’t walk away” from the deal, viewing Charles as a significant upgrade to their current midfield options. The club are aware of potential interest from other Premier League clubs, including Crystal Palace, which could drive up the price.
The increased competition for Championship players, exemplified by Elliot Anderson’s recent move to Manchester City, has inflated the market. Leeds will likely point to the £16.5 million fee Everton paid Middlesbrough for Hayden Hackney as a benchmark for a fair valuation. Securing Charles would represent a significant step towards strengthening Leeds’ midfield ahead of the new season and bolster their chances of a swift return to the Premier League.
