Leeds United learn final outcome of Shea Charles pursuit as medical scheduled

Leeds United look certain to miss out on the signing of Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.

The Whites were linked prominently with a move for the Northern Ireland international, who has 35 caps for his country.

Leeds made bids earlier in the transfer window that exceeded £20million, but were unable to strike an agreement with the Championship side.

Charles was an unused substitute as Southampton defeated Colchester United 2-0 in the EFL Cup on Saturday.

Following the game, the 22-year-old went to celebrate with the Saints fans in what now looks a farewell from the midfielder.

However, Daniel Farke will now have to look elsewhere if he still wants midfield reinforcement this summer after a new update on Sunday.

What's the latest with Shea Charles Leeds United?

It was already looking increasingly unlikely that Leeds would miss out on Charles.

Despite heavy interest early in the window, Leeds felt like they were reaching the limit of what they were prepared to spend to land him.

Consequently, Fulham emerged as a leading contender this week, and it looks likely the Cottagers will win the race for his signature.

David Ornstein wrote for the Athletic that Charles is set to undergo a medical with Fulham on Monday.

Fulham are said to have agreed a deal that could eventually reach £30million to sign Charles.

The former Manchester City man has reportedly agreed a five-year contract with Alvaro Arbeloa's side.

It now remains to be seen if Farke will try and strengthen his midfield or look elsewhere for reinforcement.

Leeds United stick to their guns over Shea Charles

This one is a tricky one to judge really, because there is no doubting that Charles is an extremely talented player.

But Leeds are right not to be held to ransom if they think the fee is too much for what they want to pay.

So, you have to credit the recruitment team for sticking to their guns and refusing to yield to Saints' demands on this one.

Farke already has plenty of good options in his midfield, so it feels like that the focus now will be filling other areas of the squad that need attention.

Another new striker would be a welcome addition, or potentially a forward who can fill several roles.

Another left-back, a deputy goalkeeper to James Trafford, and potentially another centre-back are high on the priority list too.