Leeds close in on new signing as club enter advanced talks for replacement

Leeds United have an agreement in place to sign Harry Wilson on a free transfer. However, they are now closing in on another new signing.

Despite several midfield options in their squad, Leeds seem determined to upgrade in that area of their squad, and Shea Charles has emerged as a top target.

He has a year left on his contract, but that has not deterred Southampton from holding out for a bigger fee after rejecting Leeds’ initial bid of £20m earlier this week.

However, it seems the two clubs are closing in on an agreement to sell Charles, as Southampton are deep in negotiations to sign his replacement this summer.

Southampton are in advanced talks to sign a replacement for Shea Charles

Southampton are aware that Charles is going to leave, and Leeds are his likely destination as the midfielder is pushing for a move to Elland Road.

It seems an agreement for his sale is close, and Southampton are already in discussions to bring in his replacement as soon as possible this summer.

According to Sky Sports News, the Saints are in advanced negotiations with midfielder Dan Neil, who will be out of contract next week.

He was part of the Ipswich squad that earned promotion to the Premier League last season, but will leave the club this summer.

He has emerged as Southampton manager Tonda Eckert’s top target as the Saints seek to sign him on a free transfer in the ongoing window.

It has been claimed that Neil is closing in on signing for Southampton and could soon sign on the dotted line with the club.

With Charles on his way, the Saints are close to securing his replacement in the ongoing summer transfer window.

Leeds need to sell a midfielder too

Leeds have been tipped to sell a midfielder if they sign Charles, but there is considerable debate about who could leave Elland Road this summer.

Anton Stach and Ethan Ampadu are regarded as key figures in Daniel Farke’s squad and are not expected to be going anywhere. Ao Tanaka has also strengthened his standing after an impressive season and a strong World Cup, making him another player Leeds are keen to keep.

That leaves Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff as the midfielders whose futures look far less certain if Shea Charles arrives this summer.

Longstaff never really found any rhythm after joining from Newcastle last year. He struggled after a good start and gradually slipped down the pecking order as the season wore on.

Gruev’s situation is also uncertain. The Bulgarian has just one year remaining on his contract, and there has been little indication that Leeds are preparing to offer him an extension. His recent knee injury, however, could complicate any attempt to move him on before the transfer window closes.

Leeds view Charles as a priority target, but bringing him to Elland Road is likely to require room in the squad. If the deal goes through, one of the club’s current midfielders is expected to make way.