How 49ers may have inexplicably made Shea Charles chase harder for Leeds United

The flame has been cooling on Leeds United's race for Shea Charles over the last week.

The latest reports were that a second bid was rejected, but talks are still ongoing.

Charles has emerged as one of the Whites' leading contenders to arrive in LS11 this summer transfer window.

But movements by the 49ers elsewhere in their business ventures could complicate things on that front.

Two bids have so far been knocked back, but Southampton's business in the market had looked to be a sign of positivity for Leeds.

That was until the latest developments involving the Leeds ownership in the transfer market.

Why a Rangers transfer might have complicated Leeds’ midfield succession plan

Southampton will not want to lose Charles without having a replacement in mind.

The Saints had eyed Dan Neil as a midfield signing, and that hinted towards them being resigned to losing Charles.

But, fellow 49ers side Rangers hijacked that move and have since announced Neil as a player on 1 July.

This leaves Southampton scrambling and now in search elsewhere for a midfielder.

Although the two clubs - Leeds and Rangers - both have differing board members and staff, and do operate independently, one of the 49ers' assets may have now affected the other.

Now, the push for Charles could be made more difficult as the Championship side seeks an alternative replacement.

Leeds are still hoping to find a resolution with Southampton over a fee for Charles.

But, the Saints are playing hard-ball, with Southampton demanding close to £30million for Charles.

Meanwhile, the Peacocks could face plenty of competition for Charles, with Crystal Palace also firmly in the race for the midfielder.

Should Leeds look for someone other than Charles?

One thing Leeds cannot get warped into is a long transfer saga over one signing.

There are other areas of the pitch needing reinforcements and spending too much time on Charles could leave them in a worrying position in terms of time to get a deal over the line.

If a compromise cannot be reached at an acceptable fee for Leeds, then moving on has to be considered.

Although Charles is the main midfield target, there are plenty more options on the market for the Whites, and they will likely have them shortlisted.

Getting the squad built as early as possible into pre-season would be an ideal situation, and Daniel Farke already looks set to add Harry Wilson to his ranks.