Reliable journo claims several clubs may join Leeds in tracking Championship defender

In the past month, Leeds United have been linked strongly with Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala.

Those links have heated up, so much so that the Daily Star claimed that the Whites will sign the Spaniard whether they are promoted to the Premier League or not.

The 29-year-old's contract expires in the summer at the Riverside, making him available to switch clubs with ease.

That's at the Leeds end, but what about Middlesbrough - surely they would want to keep one of their most-experienced players next season.

Hartlepool Mail journalist Joe Nicholson has claimed that he would have to accept reduced terms at Boro, whilst believing that a number of clubs will be monitoring his situation alongside Leeds.

"Regardless of Leeds’ interest, several Championship clubs will surely be monitoring the defender’s situation, given the centre-back’s spell on Teesside," he wrote.

Victor Orta will know Ayala from his time with Boro, but that could be set to mean nothing. The Athletic's Phil Hay has claimed that Leeds are unlikely to pursue the defender this summer.

Leeds' main priority in the summer transfer window will be to try and sign Ben White in a permanent deal from Brighton after this successful loan spell.

Andrea Radrizzani has even confirmed himself that the Whites will be lodging a serious offer and that could see Ayala placed as a back-up - time will tell.

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