Crystal Palace are stepping up their summer recruitment plans as Pierre Sage begins shaping his squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign, with Southampton midfielder Shea Charles emerging as a leading target.
The Eagles are preparing for life under their new head coach following Oliver Glasner’s departure and are expected to be active in the transfer market as they balance domestic commitments with European football next season.
Midfield is one of the areas Palace are keen to strengthen, particularly with continued uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of Adam Wharton.
Shea Charles has now moved firmly onto the club’s radar.
The Southampton midfielder has attracted widespread attention following another impressive campaign, with his composure in possession and ability to dictate play earning admiration from several Premier League clubs.
Leeds United have also been strongly linked with the Northern Ireland international and are understood to have made previous attempts to secure his signature.
However, Palace believe they can put themselves in a stronger position.
According to reports, the Eagles are optimistic about their chances of landing the talented midfielder, with European football expected to play an important role in any negotiations.
“Hopeful.”
That optimism is believed to stem from Palace’s ability to offer UEFA Europa League football, something that could prove decisive if the player is presented with multiple options this summer.
Southampton, meanwhile, are understood to value Charles highly and are not expected to entertain offers below their asking price.
Reports suggest the Championship club are holding out for a fee in the region of £30 million before considering a sale.
Despite the financial demands, Palace continue to assess the situation as they look to strengthen one of the most important areas of the squad.
Charles is viewed as a player capable of making an immediate contribution while also possessing significant room for further development.
His tactical intelligence, passing range and maturity have made him one of the most highly rated young midfielders outside the Premier League.
Those qualities fit the recruitment profile Palace have followed in recent transfer windows.
The Eagles have built a reputation for identifying talented young players before their value rises further, and Charles is considered another footballer with the potential to flourish at Selhurst Park.
While Leeds remain interested, Palace are hopeful their sporting project and the opportunity to compete in Europe will give them the edge in the race for his signature.
No agreement has yet been reached, and discussions remain at an early stage.
However, Palace are expected to continue monitoring developments closely as the transfer window progresses.
With Sage eager to strengthen his midfield options before the new season begins, Charles has emerged as one of the club’s priority targets.
Should Palace succeed, they would not only add one of the Championship’s brightest young midfielders to their squad but also beat a Premier League rival to one of the summer’s most highly regarded talents.
