Fulham lead race for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles after Leeds setback

Fulham are leading the race to sign Southampton midfielder Shea Charles after stepping up negotiations over a deal worth around £25 million, Football Place understands.

The Cottagers are working to complete the signing of the 22-year-old as Álvaro Arbeloa continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

Charles has emerged as one of the Championship's most sought-after midfielders after an impressive campaign with Southampton, and Fulham are now in pole position after Leeds United failed with two offers.

Football Place understands Fulham have accelerated talks with Southampton in an attempt to wrap up their third signing of the summer.

Leeds had previously seen two bids rejected for the former Manchester City academy graduate, but the west London club have now overtaken Daniel Farke's side in the race for his signature.

Charles remains under contract at St Mary's, but Southampton are facing increasing pressure as interest in the Northern Ireland international grows.

Arbeloa has made strengthening midfield one of his priorities this summer.

Sasa Lukić has entered the final year of his contract and continues to attract interest from newly promoted Ipswich Town, prompting Fulham to plan for the future.

Earlier this week, the club completed the signing of Cesar Palacios from Real Madrid for around £8.5m, while they also retain an interest in highly-rated teenager Thiago Pitarch.

Charles would add Championship experience and long-term quality to a midfield undergoing significant change.

Fulham have already secured two of Arbeloa's leading targets.

Striker Gonzalo García has joined from Real Madrid in a deal worth around £34.3m, arriving as the long-term replacement for veteran forward Raúl Jiménez.

The addition of Charles would further lower the average age of the squad while providing another player with significant experience despite being only 22 years old.

The midfielder has already made more than 100 Championship appearances, underlining his consistency at a young age.

Fulham are expected to continue negotiations with Southampton over the coming days as they look to finalise an agreement before competition intensifies.

Southampton begin their competitive campaign against Colchester United in the Carabao Cup this weekend, while Fulham continue their pre-season preparations with a behind-closed-doors friendly against Crystal Palace.