Panic stations for United as familiar rivals lodge bid to hijack deal for rising 22-yo star – report

Leeds have reportedly submitted an opening offer to sign Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, who is also attracting interest from Manchester United. United interest United are focusing on bolstering their midfield this summer and Charles is believed to be one of the players they are keeping tabs on. Michael Carrick’s side have been tipped to make up to three midfield signings. A deal has already been agreed with Atalanta for Ederson, who recently confirmed that he is just one step away from sealing his switch to Old Trafford. Negotiations with West Ham for Mateus Fernandes remain ongoing, but United are casting a wide net across the midfield market. Aurélien Tchouaméni, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba are all in the mix, while Charles, alongside Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney, features among the more cost-effective contingency plans. Charles made headlines earlier this season by scoring the goal that sent Arsenal crashing out of the FA Cup. He followed that up with a crucial match-winner against Middlesbrough in the Championship play-off semi-finals, although it didn’t count for too much due to the spygate affair that enveloped Southampton in the aftermath. A report covered by The Peoples Person last week relayed that Leeds were weighing up a £20m bid for Charles, in an effort to steal a march on other suitors, including United. Now, Simon Jones of the Daily Mail has revealed that the Yorkshire outfit has lodged the offer. Leeds step up chase Jones wrote on X, “Leeds have made a £20m-plus offer to Southampton for Shea Charles.” Leeds have made a £20m-plus offer to Southampton for Shea Charles — Simon Jones (@SimonJones_DM) June 21, 2026 This has been corroborated by TEAMtalk, who further note that the Saints have identified a replacement for the United target. It’s understood that Leeds and Southampton are locked in discussions to try and strike an agreement. In another blow to United, the report states that Charles is open to signing for Leeds. The 22-year-old is keen on playing in the Premier League and views the chance to play for Leeds as an attractive next step in his career. Leeds’ interest in the Manchester City academy graduate dates as far back as 18 months ago. His versatility is especially admired at Elland Road. In addition to central midfield, Charles can also be deployed at full-back or in the wider positions. Should United firm up their interest in Charles, it will be intriguing to see if they jump into the bidding and attempt to gain the upper hand over their familiar rivals. Feature image Leila Coker via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!