Credit: Imago

Oliver Walton

Thu 21 May 2026 8:15, UK

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Leeds United‘s chances of signing Finn Azaz this summer have been boosted by the fallout that is set to ensue from Southampton being thrown out of the Championship play-offs.

Southampton are not set to take part in the Championship play-off final after an independent panel found them guilty of spying on semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

New reports have stated that Saints players are considering legal action against the club for potential loss of earnings, after their win against Boro initially put them one game away from the Premier League.

Finn Azaz was a standout throughout the campaign for Southampton, with Leeds linked to his services ahead of the summer window.

Now that his club are not set for promotion, and he could sue them following spygate, Leeds’ transfer plans are much more likely to involve potentially signing the Ireland star.

Leeds given better chance of landing Finn Azaz as Southampton players consider legal action

Azaz has been a key man for several Championship teams over the last few seasons, with his latest campaign at St Mary’s proving that he has the ability to step up to the Premier League.

The Irish playmaker registered 19 goal contributions in 43 second-tier games in 2025-26, but will undoubtedly feel let down by Tonda Eckert and his coaches for their deceit and ultimately disastrous spying blunder.

The Sun have reported that Southampton’s star players are “furious” with the situation as they consider a class-action lawsuit.

Azaz will surely be one of their key men who was in for a big wage increase and bonus if they were promoted to the top flight, but now that is very unlikely to happen unless their appeal is successful.

Leeds have retained an interest in his signature over the last few months, and can now move ahead with a move for Azaz without fear that Southampton will stand in his way.

Which other players could Leeds poach from Southampton this summer?

Sources have told Football Insider that Southampton are set to sack Eckert following spygate, but several stars are expected to leave even if he is relieved of his duties.

Leo Scienza has been named as their Player of the Year and was included in the Championship Team of the Season after notching seven goals and nine assists in 39 league games.

He is attracting interest from the likes of Everton and Tottenham, while Leeds have also been touted as a possible suitor too.

England centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis has spoken of his aim to play regularly in the top flight, so could also be available for the Whites to bolster their backline.