Middlesbrough may turn attention to Leeds United defender Luke Ayling as Michael Carrick issues transfer admission
Middlesbrough may turn their attention to Leeds United defender Luke Ayling as Michael Carrick has issued a transfer admission.
The Boro boss confirmed that Aston Villa attacking midfielder Finn Azaz is undergoing his medical ahead of joining them in January.
“I can say it’s close,” said Carrick (4 January) on the imminent deal. “We’re still waiting on a few things to be finalised but we’re very hopeful it will be done pretty soon.”
Sky Sports reported on 3 January, 18:21 that Azaz will have his medical and that the Championship side also want to bring in Ayling.
The right-back has fallen down the pecking order at Elland Road and a January exit seems to be on the cards for him.
With work on one transfer seemingly done, the attention could turn on Ayling and the deal may be wrapped up in days should an agreement be reached.
The Whites must not stand in the 32-year-old’s way and should consider facilitating his departure to Middlesbrough for a decent fee.
Despite Ayling’s significant contributions and the extension of his contract until 2024, football demands adaptation.
Limited appearances and the emergence of younger talents like Archie Gray signal a shift in the team’s direction under Daniel Farke.
The Englishman’s departure could free up valuable resources, both financially and in terms of squad dynamics.
Middlesbrough’s interest indicates that Ayling’s experience remains valuable elsewhere and generating a decent fee from his transfer could be strategically used to strengthen other areas of the squad.
In other Leeds United news, an international player linked with a move to Elland Road is unhappy at his current club and could be on his way out in the January transfer window.