Leeds United are still pushing to sign Shea Charles this summer. The Whites want to follow up the signing of Harry Wilson with a move for another midfielder.
Last season, Daniel Farke rarely trusted his options in the middle of the park outside Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach.
Longstaff, Tanaka and Gruev all rotated at different parts of the season, depending on what Farke wanted in the middle of the park. It is very early this summer, but it is clear that Leeds are focusing on the midfield.
Harry Wilson will be announced soon, as the formalities of his free transfer have been resolved.
The club is also keeping an eye on Julian Brandt, who is also a free agent this summer.
Leeds United need to focus on World Cup star
Leeds United have had two bids turned down for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles over the last week. Per Graham Smyth, the Southampton man is said to be the priority this summer.
However, the Saints are believed to want a fee around £23 million with add-ons.
Leeds could find an alternative with an even lower price tag. The club has been looking at potential targets at the 2026 World Cup like Zion Suzuki and Ayase Ueda.
Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi is having another sensational tournament.
He impressed the last time his country reached the semi-finals in 2022. So far in this tournament, he has two goals, with both coming in a huge win over Canada in the Round of 16.
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Would be a financially sound move
Shea Charles is a more dynamic midfielder who can defend, just like Stach.
But Ounahi provides something different; he is a great ball carrier that can progress the ball up the pitch. He can be used in a pivot, or as a more advanced midfielder – he has five goals and two assists for Girona last season.
The 26-year old’s price tag is what will make him more appealing to potential suitors.
A player of this quality is expensive in today’s market, but it has been reported that Ounahi has a £17 million release clause.
This makes him a more attractive option than Charles, with Southampton demanding over £20 million for a player with a year left on his contract. If the 49ers can afford it, they should push through.
But Azzedine Ounahi is a wonderful market opportunity that the club should really consider.
