Leeds United may move on to other midfield targets after having a third bid rejected for 22-year-old Northern Ireland international Shea Charles by Southampton.

According to a report by Sky Sports journalist Zinny Boswell, Crystal Palace and Fulham are also interested in Shea Charles. The two London clubs are keen on reinforcing their midfield units by signing a holding midfielder, and Leeds United’s hesitance to submit another bid has partly cleared the route for them to pursue the youngster’s signature.

Shea Charles and his Southampton resurgence

Shea Charles has been one of the most promising young prospects in the EFL Championship since Southampton’s relegation to the second division last year. The 22-year-old was slow off the blocks at St. Mary’s, but he finally made his mark in the 2025/26 campaign.

Charles, who has picked Northern Ireland as his national side, overcame a hamstring injury to become a mainstay in the middle of the park and a cornerstone of Southampton’s promotion tilt before they fell short due to the Spygate scandal, making 38 appearances across all competitions while contributing 6 goals and 2 assists. Meanwhile, the player’s exploits for the Saints have helped him garner interest from well-known clubs.

Premier League return on the horizon?

Fulham recently joined the race to sign the Manchester-born midfielder. The Cottagers are keen on signing a holding midfielder, as there are concerns surrounding Sander Berge’s long-term future amid his links with Manchester United. Even if the Norwegian midfielder remains at Craven Cottage, Alvaro Arbeloa needs to sign a player who can be a solid central midfielder partner alongside him.

Meanwhile, Leeds United’s interest in Shea Charles makes sense. While the Whites signed several midfielders last summer, Sean Longstaff has been a backup player for Daniel Farke. Additionally, Ao Tanaka’s long-term future is uncertain amid his frustrations over a lack of regular game time. Charles has thus emerged as a viable target, with recent reports suggesting they are the front-runners to sign him.

As for Crystal Palace, while Daichi Kamada has signed a new contract, there are concerns about Adam Wharton’s long-term future amid his links with several high-profile Premier League clubs. Additionally, Jefferson Lerma is on the wrong side of 30, while Cheick Doucoure has struggled with fitness issues throughout his stint with Crystal Palace. So, they must sign at least one midfielder in the coming weeks, with Charles an option worth considering.

Meanwhile, Leeds United’s decision to consider alternatives is sensible, as completing most of the business before the season kicks off will ensure stability. Meanwhile, per Zinny Boswell, Fulham and Crystal Palace have yet to submit any bids to sign Charles, and Southampton’s situation is presently secure as they hope to keep the Northern Ireland international at St. Mary’s for another season.