Southampton midfielder Shea Charles is the subject of interest from Premier League side Leeds United, according to TEAMtalk.
Southampton are in for a busy summer window after their recent abysmal campaign. The Saints were relegated after securing just 12 points throughout the entire 2024/25 Premier League season.
Will Still was appointed the new head coach at St. Mary’s in May and has a huge task on his hands to build a side that can compete in the Championship. The Saints have made one signing so far this summer, with four players returning from their loan spells.
Southampton boss Will Still
Image courtesy of: PETER CZIBORRA/REUTERS.
However, several departures are expected this transfer window for Still’s side, ahead of the upcoming season. Now, Shea Charles could be playing football away from the South Coast next campaign.
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United are stepping up their interest in the Southampton 21-year-old. Daniel Farke is looking to bolster his options in midfield, and the Northern Irish international is amongst the shortlist of players that the Premier League outfit could pursue.
Charles spent last season on loan in the Championship with Sheffield Wednesday but is thought to be firmly in Still’s plans at St. Mary’s.
How did Charles fare last season?
The 21-year-old was one of Sheffield Wednesday’s better performers last campaign and didn’t look out of place at Championship level.
sheffield united man ollie arblaster and sheffield wednesday loan man shea charles - SWFC SUFC
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
The central midfielder played 43 games for the Owls, scoring once and assisting five times. He averaged a 7.3 rating across 3,638 minutes played last season, according to FOTMob.
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Charles was crowned the player of the year at Hillsborough and will look to play a part for Southampton next year if he is to remain after the transfer window.
Southampton must keep the midfielder
With the amount of outgoings expected this summer window, Southampton must retain their young core of players.
Charles was excellent in the Championship last year and could be instrumental for Still. The former Manchester City prospect also played a role in the Saints’ promotion-winning campaign two seasons ago, and that experience can be vital.
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The Northern Ireland international would likely cost Leeds United upwards of £10m, but the South Coast side must hold firm and refuse any offers coming their way. Keeping hold of their younger players is what can make or break the next campaign at St. Mary’s.