Leeds United transfers as fresh Shea Charles 'offer' submitted amid sell-on clause reveal
Fresh reports have emerged surrounding Leeds United's pursuit of a top target.
Leeds United look to have stepped up their pursuit of Shea Charles amid reports of a fresh offer for the Southampton midfielder.
The Whites lodged an opening bid worth around £20million for Charles last month and while it was not accepted by Southampton, talks continued. The YEP understands those discussions have been ongoing amid reports of interest from elsewhere - namely Premier League rivals Crystal Palace.
Leeds now look to have taken another step forward with the Daily Mail reporting on their increased proposal. Elland Road chiefs are believed to have submitted an offer worth an initial £23m plus add-ons.
According to the report, Southampton value Charles at £30m but Leeds hope their add-ons can convince the south coast club to compromise on that number. That would suggest the add-ons sit somewhere below £7m although no exact number has been reported.
A factor in Southampton’s price-tag will be the sell-on clause they agreed to when signing Charles from Manchester City in 2023. The midfielder cost £15m with bonuses factored in while City are entitled to 15 per cent of any future sale - they also have a buyback rights clause allowing them to match any accepted bid.
It’s not entirely clear if City would be entitled to 15 per cent of the full fee or any profit on Southampton’s £15m purchase, as is sometimes the case with such clauses. Either way, a significant chunk of any accepted bid would have to be forward on by St Mary’s chiefs.
A second, increased bid is evidence Leeds are serious about Charles with Daniel Farke looking to strengthen his midfield ranks. Despite still being just 22, the Northern Ireland international has bags of experience with three years at Southampton bringing 106 Championship appearances, 43 of which were on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.