Carlton Palmer shares Luke Ayling January exit verdict in new Leeds United transfer admission
Carlton Palmer has shared his verdict on a potential Leeds United exit for Luke Ayling during the January transfer window, admitting the Whites could sell for the right price.
Reports emerged from Sky Sports (3 January) that Michael Carrick’s side were interested in signing the 32-year-old right-back during the January window as they look to address the defensive fragility in their squad.
While Daniel Farke has repeatedly insisted that he doesn’t want to sell any of his players, Palmer believes that should the right offer arrive from Middlesbrough this January, the Whites may be tempted to cash in.
As quoted by Football League World (7 January) he said: “Daniel Farke has repeatedly said he won’t sell or let any of their bench players go out on loan, but in Ayling’s case the defender is out of contract in the summer so a decent offer could see Leeds sell.
“On the other hand, they might decide to keep him in the building as their priority is to get promoted. Leeds sit fourth in the Championship, some 12 points ahead of Middlesbrough in the Championship table, so I don’t think Leeds would worry too much about selling players to Middlesbrough.
“The most important thing for Leeds United is to have a strong squad that can cope with injuries and suspensions over the second half of the season.”
Could see them sell
Farke has insisted that he doesn’t want to sell any of his Leeds United players during the January transfer window, but as Palmer suggested, a good offer for Ayling could see that approach challenged over the next month.
The 32-year-old has barely featured for the Whites over the last few months and has struggled to even hold down a place in the matchday squad at times. He is currently surplus to requirements and therefore may be sold for the right price.
Ayling is a big character in the Elland Road dressing room and has plenty of experience, especially in what it takes to be successful in England’s second tier. Farke may be keen to not lose such a big personality as the Whites push for promotion.
But if he doesn’t extend his contract, the right-back will walk away for nothing come the end of the season. Leeds may be better off pocketing the money this month if Middlesbrough act on their interest and make a reasonable offer.
In other Leeds United news, Patrick Bamford has revealed how teammates at Elland Road reacted to a “ludicrous” new change