Manchester United's pursuit of Southampton midfielder Shea Charles has been complicated by Leeds United, who have submitted a £20 million bid for the 22-year-old. Southampton rejected the offer and are seeking a higher fee, according to The Athletic, though negotiations continue.
United's Midfield Overhaul Underway
United have already agreed a £35 million deal for Atalanta's Ederson, with an additional £3.8 million in add-ons. The Brazilian told Tuttosport: "It's practically almost all sorted." However, the club still seeks further reinforcements for manager Michael Carrick.
Other targets include Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes, but each faces competition from rivals such as Manchester City and Tottenham. City are linked with Anderson and Tonali, while Spurs have shown interest in Anderson and Fernandes.
Leeds Move Ahead of United
Leeds have taken the initiative for Charles, tabling a £20 million bid that Southampton pushed back on. United have yet to make a formal offer. Charles joined Southampton from Manchester City in 2023 for a fee reported at around £10 million, and has made 76 appearances for the Saints, plus a loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday. He can also play in central defence.
Charles made one Premier League appearance for Manchester City before his move. United chief Jason Wilcox, formerly at Southampton, helped secure Charles's transfer to the south coast and considered him a player who would 'prosper at the highest level'.
United's Midfield Priorities
Central midfield became United's top priority after strengthening their attack last summer with Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. Interest has also emerged in Carlos Baleba and Conor Gallagher. Casemiro is set to join Inter Miami, while Manuel Ugarte is expected to leave after failing to secure a starting spot. Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes remain the current central midfield choices until Ederson arrives.
