Leeds must make Shea Charles transfer priority as French media impressed by his latest display

Shea Charles is being eyed by Leeds United this summer transfer window, and the Southampton midfielder just proved how good he is again in Northern Ireland’s 3-1 defeat to France.

The 22-year-old started for his nation in France’s final match before the 2026 World Cup, where Michael O’Neill’s men put in a good show.

It was only through the brilliance of Michael Olise that the French managed to pull off a victory, with Barnsley’s Patrick Kelly even getting a goal.

However, perhaps no one was better for Northern Ireland than Charles, who was even heavily praised by the French media for his defensive and creative qualities.

Now, Leeds United have to step up their interest in Charles ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Southampton star has clear potential and could become a star at Elland Road in years to come if the club are able to get a deal over the line.

Shea Charles wows in Northern Ireland’s defeat to France

Charles has emerged as one of the EFL’s biggest prospects after another impressive season in the Championship.

The midfielder played 31 Championship matches this campaign, and thought he had secured the Saints’ place in the playoff final with a late goal against Middlesbrough before the club were kicked out of the competition.

Against France, his quality was on full show yet again as he picked up an assist, sending a clear message to potential suitors.

French outlet Foot Mercato was particularly impressed and gave the midfielder and wrote: “Trained at Manchester City and now playing for Southampton, he was deployed in midfield alongside McCann. 

“Very solid defensively, he used his physical strength to disrupt the French attack. In the 33rd minute, he notably won an important duel against Ousmane Dembele before dispossessing him. But it was above all his technical quality that made his mark in this first half. 

“In the 40th minute, he delivered an exceptional and completely unpredictable pass behind the French defence. A perfectly weighted ball to Kelly that could have allowed Northern Ireland to open the scoring. 

“In fine form, he provided an almost certain goal for Kelly in the 64th minute (2-1). He delivered a very solid performance.”

Who else is chasing Charles this summer transfer window?

Football Insider exclusively revealed that Charles is also on the radar of Manchester United this summer.

Southampton’s lack of promotion this season has increased the likelihood of him leaving St Mary's this summer.

Michael Carrick is aiming to bolster his midfield this summer, with Casemiro exciting the club and several signings are eyed.

Charles had come through Manchester City’s academy before he made the move to Southampton in 2023, where he has since established himself as a key player after their relegation to the Championship.

It remains to be seen if this will disrupt Leeds’ plans to sign the midfielder in what could be a potential battle to secure the Southampton star’s signature.