Fulham 'close to agreeing' £30m Shea Charles deal
Leeds are set to miss out on signing Shea Charles as Fulham edge closer to agreeing a £30million deal with Southampton, sources have told Football Insider.
Charles was among Southampton's top performers throughout last season and has attracted several suitors during the summer window.
The Saints' Spygate saga and subsequent expulsion from the Championship play-offs increased the likelihood of an exit after an impressive individual campaign.
Leeds have been keen on a move over the last few months, but saw two bids to sign Charles rejected by Southampton in June and July.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Fulham are now the clear favourites to prise him from St Mary's after submitting a £30m package offer.
His impending arrival at a Premier League rival will be a big blow to Leeds and Daniel Farke as they aim to improve squad depth before the new season.
Shea Charles closing in on Fulham move after serious Leeds interest
Charles registered eight goal contributions in 36 appearances from central midfield last season, including a fine late strike to knock Arsenal out of the FA Cup
He looks to be a Premier League player in waiting, with Fulham now his most likely destination over Leeds as they advance in talks with the Saints.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Fulham are in the box seat now to get this deal done for Shea Charles, which will be a blow to Leeds, there's no doubt about that. They had a couple of offers rejected earlier in the transfer window. I think offers of £20m and £23m were both rejected by Southampton.
"That has opened the door for Fulham to try and steal in for Charles. A deal in the region of £30m is close to being agreed between the two clubs, and it does seem that Charles is open to a move to Craven Cottage as well."
Leeds priced out of move for second Saints star Leo Scienza
Leeds have also looked at signing another Southampton star this summer after being impressed by Brazilian winger Scienza.
The 27-year-old registered 17 goal contributions in 37 Championship games for the Saints in his debut season in English football.
Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Southampton have priced Leeds out of a move for Scienza after demanding over £25m to agree to a sale.
The Whites' interest has faded and they are now pursuing alternative options in attacking midfield.