Leeds United
Credit: Imago
Leeds United have already signed Harry Wilson on a free transfer and are now pushing to finalise deals to improve their defence and midfield.
The Yorkshire giants finished 14th in their first season back in the Premier League. However, they are aware that the second season is likely to be tougher.
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Daniel Farke is seeking to strengthen several areas of their squad ahead of the summer, with particular emphasis on adding defensive and attacking reinforcements.
However, Leeds have been working behind the scenes for several weeks to sign one of their long-term targets, and an agreement now appears to be edging closer as the selling club prepare for the player’s departure.
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Daniel Farke has been keen to add major upgrades to his squad, even in areas where they seemingly look well-stocked ahead of the new season.
The Leeds boss is aware that he needs better options across the pitch to ensure Leeds stay away from the relegation quagmire in the 2026/27 campaign.
Leeds have been in negotiations with Southampton for weeks over a deal to sign Shea Charles, and this deal has been anything but straightforward.
The Saints have slapped a £30m asking price on the midfielder and have already rejected two offers from Leeds this summer.
Leeds held more positive talks with Southampton towards the end of last week and have been expecting an imminent solution.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Southampton expect to sell the midfielder in the ongoing transfer window.
Despite the belligerence in negotiations, the Championship side expected Charles to leave before the transfer window closes.
With Southampton and Leeds expected to fly out for their pre-season tours in the coming weeks, a deal is likely to be finalised soon.
There has been talk of other clubs showing an interest in Charles, but Leeds believe they are firmly in the lead to sign him this summer.
The midfielder wants to join the Whites and his camp are pushing Southampton to agree on a fee soon.
Leeds United do not want to overpay for Shea Charles
Shea Charles remains one of Leeds United’s priority targets this summer, but the club are determined not to overpay despite Southampton’s firm stance.
The 22-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract and is still relatively untested at Premier League level. Leeds feel Southampton’s £30m valuation is excessive for a player who is yet to establish himself consistently in the top flight.
The Saints have already turned down bids of up to £23m, but negotiations have continued, with Leeds seeking a middle ground that works for both clubs.
If the deal goes through, the Whites are hopeful it can be completed for a fee closer to £25m rather than Southampton’s original asking price.