(Credit: Imago)

Callum O'Connell

Sun 31 May 2026 17:30, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Leo Scienza is keen to join Leeds United as he aims to make the step up to the Premier League in the wake of Southampton’s spygate controversy.

The 27-year-old has enjoyed an electric season in the second tier and believes it is now time to make the step up despite spending just one year with the Saints.

Southampton failed to achieve promotion after being thrown out of the play-off final by the EFL, and are now at risk of losing their best players this summer.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider that Scienza may not be the only casualty as players eye moves away from St Mary’s.

Daniel Farke’s side are among a number of clubs who have been keeping an eye on the winger’s displays, and they could now make a move ahead of a busy window for Leeds.

Could Leeds United sign Leo Scienza from Southampton?

Football Insider revealed last month that Southampton could be forced to sell Scienza if they failed to achieve promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs.

Despite winning the semi-final against Middlesbrough over two legs, they were replaced by their rivals in the final, who were then defeated by Hull City.

Southampton are now bracing to receive offers for their best players, with Scienza believed to be high on the list of multiple clubs including Leeds.

“Southampton are going to be in a lot of trouble,” Brown told Football Insider.

“Not only will they miss out on the money involved in getting promoted to the Premier League, but there are players in the squad who will want to move on.

“Somebody like Scienza, who has interest from top clubs like Leeds, it could be really hard to keep hold of him if that interest comes to anything.

“The player himself will be keen to make the move and the club might not have a choice.

“This is the issue with remaining in the Championship because they may well get promoted next year, but a lot of the players won’t want to stick around.

“Scienza isn’t the only one, there are a few who Premier League clubs will be looking at, and if the money is right then Southampton will struggle.”

Which other players could leave Southampton this summer?

Scienza is far from the only player eyeing a move away from St Mary’s following the spygate fallout, with multiple players now believed to be considering their futures.

Despite what was ultimately a strong season on the pitch, Premier League clubs are looking to pounce, with the likes of Shea Charles also widely admired.

As well as Scienza, Football Insider also revealed that Leeds are interested in Charles and have been keeping tabs on the midfielder’s performances.

The Northern Ireland international has been a long-term target at Elland Road and the opportunity may now present itself to bring him in this summer.

With just one year remaining on his deal and no new talks underway, a host of Premier League suitors are keen to make moves for Charles.