Leeds United are being knocked back and fall “way short” of what Southampton want for Shea Charles. As a result, alternatives should be on the radar in case we can’t find an agreement.
One signing is already agreed and raring to go in pre-season after United sealed the free transfer signature of Harry Wilson.
The Wales international is a strong start. However, he’s far from enough for Leeds fans to feel like our transfer appetite is satiated.
Leeds United struggling to find Shea Charles agreement after ‘£23million plus add-ons’ offer rejected
Three offers have been publicly reported from Leeds’ pursuit of Southampton’s talented midfielder Shea Charles this summer.
First, United offered a total package of £20million, which was rejected. Then, a second offer amounting to a total of £25million was also knocked back.
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Most recently, a third bid initially claimed to be £23million plus add-ons was tabled. However, conflicting reports then shared that the bid was lower and that it was also turned down by the Saints.
Talks are of course ongoing, but it remains to be seen whether Leeds will stop lowballing and get the job done on Charles.
Alternatively, the club could see this pursuit as not worth the price that it’s getting to. In that event, Leeds would likely look at alternatives that could provide valuable Ethan Ampadu cover.
Chelsea open to Andrey Santos sale – Leeds United should consider Brazilian midfielder if affordable
The other reason for Leeds wishing to sign Charles is that he’s clearly viewed as something of a market opportunity.
We clearly don’t *need* a new midfielder if no one leaves. Ampadu, Anton Stach, Ilia Gruev, Ao Tanaka and Sean Longstaff is plenty cover for a 3-4-2-1 where just two will start.
However, if Charles proves not to be worth signing as our offers go up, there are other talented midfielders out there. That includes Chelsea’s Andrey Santos.
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The 22-year-old had a stellar campaign with Strasbourg in 24/25 before being integrated into the Blues’ squad last season. He was a relatively regular presence despite competing with Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Dario Essugo, making 27 appearances.
Despite his consistent playing time BBC journalist Nizaar Kinsella reports that Santos surprisingly isn’t open to an exit from Stamford Bridge, and so are his club. Neither party are forcing an exit, but multiple factors could contribute to Santos seeking an exit, those including: Chelsea’s pursuit of Granit Xhaka, no European football, and the skyrocketing value of midfielders in the market right now.
Of course, the last point there suggests that Chelsea could sell the talented Brazilian at a premium. Like all of their Clearlake investments, Santos is tied down for a long time until 2030. Although, his uncertain future might be something Leeds ought to have a look at.
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