Michael Carrick wants Leeds United transfer already for Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick is keen on signing Charlie Cresswell from Leeds United already after the two clubs faced off in a 3-2 thriller at Elland Road on 2 December, according to Alan Nixon.

The Sun journalist reported via his Patreon [3 December] that Carrick is looking for a top centre-back to sign in January and will be given funds to sign a serious replacement.

It was also shared that, while Cresswell has been on the fringes of the squad under Daniel Farke and will be looking for game time, Leeds may be unwilling to help a rival club.

A better move for Cresswell, but not for Leeds

The move would definitely suit Cresswell. Having struggled for minutes or involvement so far this season, he would be looking at improved game time at a club looking to push for promotion, with a potential loan or permanent deal on the cards to make the switch.

For Leeds, however, it would represent giving a top player to their promotion rivals, possibly strengthening their rivals' bid to go up to the Premier League at the detriment of their own - something they will be keen to avoid.

They are caught in a dilemma of whether to let a player who ultimately is no longer in the plans at Elland Road leave for the sake of his own career, while still holding the best interests of the club at the top of the list, which could see Cresswell remain in Yorkshire.

As he is on the fringes of Farke's squad, which has led to a drop out of the England Under-21 squad, and will want as much game time as possible to continue his progress as a young footballer, it may be that Cresswell pushes to make the move happen.

In other Leeds United news, a BBC commentator shared something he's never seen before v Middlesbrough.