Leeds United Credit: Imago
Leeds United have secured one new signing this summer when Harry Wilson joined the Whites on a free transfer from Fulham.
However, Leeds have several other priority areas to sort out, and they have been working on a few deals ahead of executing them in the coming weeks.
Most Read on The Leeds Press
Leeds have joined the race to sign Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic to replace Pascal Struijk, and are in the market for a goalkeeper following the shock departure of Karl Darlow this summer.
However, Leeds are now closing in on discovering whether their negotiations for one of Daniel Farke’s top targets will prove successful.
Read More: Midfielder prioritises move to Leeds United ahead of Premier League rivals
Leeds close in on breakthrough on one key deal
The Whites look well-stocked in the central midfield area ahead of the new season. However, Daniel Farke has been pushing to bring in a midfield man this summer.
Southampton’s Shea Charles emerged as the top target earlier in the window, but securing a deal for him has proved to be a tough nut to crack.
The Saints have rejected two offers from Leeds for Charles, and have been holding out for a deal worth up to £30m in the ongoing transfer window.
Leeds are in no mood to pay such a figure for a player who is in the final year of his contract. However, according to the Daily Mail, a breakthrough is on the horizon.
The Whites held more positive talks with Southampton in pursuit of reaching a compromise for Charles to move to Elland Road this summer.
Leeds now hope to learn before the end of the weekend whether they have been successful in their pursuit of the Southampton midfielder.
The Saints have been working on a deal behind the scenes and believe no other club have shown as much interest in him this summer.
Charles wants the move and is pushing the Saints to work out an agreement with Leeds.
Leeds do not want to overpay
Shea Charles is a top target for Leeds, but the club do not want to go over the odds this summer despite Southampton’s insistence.
The 22-year-old has a year left on his contract, and is unproven at the highest level. Leeds believe £30m is too big a figure for a player who is still not a ready-made product.
Southampton rejected offers worth £23m from Leeds, but the latter have been working on a compromise figure, which will be palatable to both clubs.
If Leeds sign Charles, they hope to work out a deal in the region of £25m this summer.