Leeds-linked winger Marcus Tavernier comments on transfer rumours
Leeds United target Marcus Tavernier has admitted that rumours linking him with an Elland Road move are not of interest to him.
TEAMTalk suggested last month (16 November) that the Whites want to sign the Middlesbrough winger, with Victor Orta a confirmed fan.
Southampton, Brighton and Burnley were also all said to be interested in signing Tavernier, whose contract at Boro runs until 2023.
Speaking to TeessideLive, the 22-year-old claimed he was not getting distracted by the speculation.
“I’ve seen the Leeds stuff, but only because my mum has been telling me about it,” he said. “That’s all I know. She tells me what’s flying around out there, but it really doesn’t interest me.
“I’m a Middlesbrough player and my only focus is getting into the play-offs and winning promotion with us.
“I want to be a Premier League player, but my dream is to do it with Middlesbrough. I’ve come through the academy here, and I want to win promotion with Middlesbrough and play in the Premier League with this club.”
Versatile
This is the usual stance a player takes when asked about transfer rumours, so it is unsurprising to see Tavernier reaffirm his focus on Middlesbrough only.
However, he is clearly ambitious – stating his desire to play in the Premier League – and with Middlesbrough’s promotion chances looking slim this season he would surely be tempted by an offer from a top flight club.
Naturally a winger, Tavernier has proved to be a utility player at the Riverside Stadium this season, playing in the centre of midfield in recent weeks.
Speaking in August, former Boro manager Neil Warnock said: “Tav is a special player. He’s a manager’s nightmare and a manager’s dream all wrapped up into one.”
Leeds are well-stocked in wide areas so would not sign the 22-year-old to play there, but they will be on the hunt for reinforcements in the middle in January.
Stuart Dallas is a prime example of how important a versatile player can be in a squad, so Tavernier’s flexibility could certainly interest Marcelo Bielsa.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are ready to make major January signings with unexpected deals to force action.