This week, TEAMtalk have linked Leeds United with a move for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles. It is early in the summer, but it is possible that a deal could develop.
Per the reports, Charles is in the last 12 months of his contract at St. Mary’s Stadium.
He is attracting interest from clubs across England. Despite having a slow start to his career after arriving from Manchester City, a loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday was instrumental in his development.
Last season, the midfielder was a key part of the first team, contributing six goals and two assists in all competition.
The report adds that Leeds are very interested in Charles because of his versatility – he can play multiple midfield roles and has filled in at fullback.
Manchester United and other Premier League clubs are keen on the 22-year old who Southampton value around £20 million.
Leeds United star could become a casualty after £20m move
The midfield cast at Leeds United rotated a lot this season. Last year saw a pivot of Ao Tanaka and Ethan Ampadu be regulars in the first team during the club’s promotion campaign.
This year, the team shifted to three in the middle with Ampadu and Anton Stach being the regulars.
Sean Longstaff was the third player in the middle of the park, and started the season very well after joining in the summer. However, an injury cut his season short and ruled him out for a few months.
When he returned to action, Ilia Gruev was the first choice. The Bulgarian also got an injury, which saw Ao Tanaka return to the team.
The Japanese midfielder impressed for the rest of the campaign, shutting down talks of him leaving this summer.
READ MORE: Elland Road exit looms for Leeds promotion hero amid contract uncertainty
Sean Longstaff could be sacrificed if Shea Charles arrives
It was reported that Gruev would be the one who leaves if a new midfielder is signed, but Longstaff is also a candidate.
Despite his bright start to the season, the rest of the campaign was very underwhelming from him. Both Gruev and Tanaka won their place back in the first team while the former Newcastle man was on the bench.
Suggesting that Longstaff will be sold this summer is pretty harsh, but one first team midfielder will have to leave.
Ethan Ampadu is the club captain, and Anton Stach was one of the best players last season. This means that one of Tanaka, Gruev and Longstaff could make way this summer.
