Shea Charles to Leeds takes new twist as Southampton to accept ‘highest offer’
Southampton midfielder Shea Charles could still move to Leeds if they offer more than Fulham's current £30million bid, sources have told Football Insider.
The Northern Ireland international is edging closer to leaving St Mary's following a standout Championship campaign.
His contract is set to expire in June 2027, so this month represents the last chance for Southampton to cash in as Premier League clubs eye a move.
Leeds have been linked to Charles throughout the summer window, and have seen two bids rejected by the Saints so far.
Fulham are advancing in talks to sign Charles for £30m, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, in a new twist Leeds could still outflank their rivals by agreeing a deal.
The Cottagers' initial offer is believed to be worth £25.7m, with add-ons taking the total package closer to £30m.
Southampton open to bigger offer for Shea Charles as Fulham pull ahead of Leeds
Charles came through the ranks at Man City and made his professional debut for the club in the Premier League before joining Southampton in 2023.
The 22-year-old looks ready to make a permanent step up to the top-flight after three seasons as a Championship standout, with Leeds now needing to offer a sizeable fee if they wish to get his signature over the line this summer.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "He's only got one year left on his contract, and Southampton have reluctantly had to accept that the player will move on. They've been trying to get the highest offer they possibly can.
"As things stand right now, Fulham's offer is the best one on the table for them, so all of the signs seem to point to Fulham being close to winning the race for Shea Charles."
Southampton fielding interest in Sam Edozie from across Europe
Southampton are still awaiting the outcome of Tonda Eckert's FA investigation, after he was heavily implicated in the Spygate scandal that rocked English football in May.
Several stars have departed and more are expected to leave before the window closes alongside Charles, with winger Edozie another who looks set to find a new club.
The 23-year-old is highly rated but struggled to nail down a starting place last season as he registered two assists in 18 appearances.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Edozie has been subject to enquiries from Bundesliga side Paderborn and Danish giants Copenhagen in the last week.
Numerous Championship sides are also keen on a move, with a cut-price deal potentially set to be struck as his contract also expires in June 2027.