What Shea Charles has told his representatives about Leeds United as Whites close in

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Leeds United are locked in negotiations with Southampton as they bid to make Shea Charles their first signing of the summer window, and it appears Charles is pushing for a move, too.

It emerged over the weekend that Leeds were turning long-term interest in Charles into a formal move. But a £20m offer made by Leeds has been rejected, with Southampton looking to rake in a bigger fee.

Ampadu, Charles and Stach in midfield next season 🔥

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Talks are ongoing with Southampton, and there is confidence that a deal can be done. Last summer, Leeds did not exceed the £20m mark on any of their 10 arrivals, but it looks as if they will this window.

Charles has starred for Southampton over the last 12 months, a key part of a side that reached the Championship play-off final before they were kicked out. Now, Charles’ stance has been revealed.

• READ MORE: Kai Havertz says Leeds want a player that he rated better than Erling Haaland

Leeds learn Shea Charles is pushing for Elland Road move

According to a report from TeamTalk, Charles has told his representatives that he wants to join Leeds this summer. Charles is keen to test himself in the Premier League and is ready to do that in a Leeds shirt.

The midfielder is also said to be open to a move to Yorkshire because Southampton failed to gain promotion to the Premier League. For the Saints, it is likely to be a theme throughout their summer.

With Charles keen on a move to Leeds and Southampton clearly willing to sell for the right price, a deal hinges on whether Leeds are willing to go higher than their initial £20m bid in the next few days.

Why Leeds are targeting a new central midfielder

Charles is a top player, but the reason Leeds are going after the Southampton midfielder is likely to be because of Ilia Gruev’s future. The Bulgarian ended the season on crutches, and his deal is soon to end.

It is unclear if Gruev will be fit enough to start pre-season with Leeds, with most clubs returning to action in three weeks. With an injury to deal with, and his contract expiring in 2027, he is a candidate to leave.

If Charles signs, Gruev leaves – without a doubt. It leaves Gruev third choice in the pecking order when it comes to holding midfielders, behind Charles and Ethan Ampadu. There is no future for Gruev at Leeds.