Expert outlines where Shea Charles will be playing next season amid Leeds United rumours, Will Still is key

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The rumour mill is in full swing regarding Shea Charles’ future, with Leeds United reportedly keen on the talented midfielder. 

After a successful loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday, where he was named Player of the Year, Charles is attracting attention.

However, Sheffield Wednesday’s recent financial issues, including delayed wage payments, could make a return to Hillsborough unlikely.

Southampton, Charles’ parent club, are now under the new management of Will Still. Still’s reputation for developing young talent could be a significant factor in convincing Charles to stay at St. Mary’s and play a key role in their Championship campaign. 

Yet, the pull of Premier League football with Leeds United remains a strong draw for any player, despite potential concerns about guaranteed playing time. 

We asked EFL Analysis’ transfer expert, Graeme Bailey, where he thought Charles would play next season.

Where will Shea Charles land next season?

Despite the rumours, Bailey revealed he wasn’t convinced about Charles’ chances in the Premier League.

“I’m not buying that he’s getting the Premier League move,” he said.

“I don’t see him being ready for the Premier League, to be honest.

“And do I buy the Leeds link? It’s possible that they’ve been impressed by him, but he wouldn’t really be an improvement on what Leeds have got. He wouldn’t get in that Leeds team now.

“I think Southampton are keen to give him a chance with Will Still from what I’m hearing. Everyone is available and has a price, but no.

“I think we will see him in Southampton colours next season first and foremost.”

Bailey isn’t wrong, Charles would face competition at a Premier League club like Leeds, where midfielders such as Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev could limit his playing time. Southampton, on the other hand, are a more stable option.

Will Still’s track record of developing young players like Shea Charles

Will Still has a strong track record of developing young players, making his arrival at Southampton positive for returning loanee Shea Charles. 

A prime example of Still’s impact is Folarin Balogun, who, under Still’s management at Reims, transformed into a prolific Ligue 1 scorer, netting 21 goals and becoming one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers. 

Another product of Still’s development is Abdukodir Khusanov. 

The Uzbek defender joined Reims in 2023, and under Still’s direction, he quickly adapted to European football and eventually earned a move to Manchester City.

For Charles, after his successful loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday, Still’s approach offers a clear pathway for him to continue growing as a player. 

Alongside this, Will Still’s need to ‘shuffle the pack’ of Southampton’s players could spell good news for Charles as they look for a resurgence and aim for a Premier League return.