Sheffield United are keeping a close eye on Middlesbrough’s loan defender Luke Ayling as his contract with Leeds United expires at the end of the current campaign, according to the latest reports.
The fullback has been at Elland Road since joining the club from Bristol City back in 2016. However, this season, the 32 year old became a mere squad player under head coach Daniel Farke and eventually moved to the Riverside Stadium on a short-term loan spell.
Since joining Boro, the experienced defender has made 17 appearances in the Championship and has played a major role in helping to get Michael Carrick’s side back on track and in contention for the play-offs, even if their surge in form came a few weeks too late
Should the Teesside outfit fail to finish in the top six before the beginning of May when the regular season ends, Ayling has just two matches left before his deal with Leeds United expires, casting his future in doubt.
Nevertheless, there are already clubs keeping an eye on his situation with the Whites. According to a report from Alan Nixon on his exclusive Pat reon, relegation-threatened Premier League side Sheffield United are hoping to sign Ayling on a free once his contract expires.
Nixon is claiming that Ayling is seen as a key capture for the Blades, who will likely be in the Championship next season after amassing only 16 points from 33 matches in the top-flight this term. He boasts a market value of £850,000, as per Transfermarkt, but suitors can sign him for free in just a matter of months.
Ayling is still only 32 and can be a huge asset for a team in the Championship. Unfortunately, his future no longer lies at Elland Road which may be a sad goodbye for all involved, but a switch to Bramall Lane or a permanent stay at Middlesbrough are both great options for the fullback.
The Englishman has three promotions on his CV already and so he knows what it takes to get promoted. This experience could be invaluable for Sheffield United or Boro next season as the two clubs look to return to the Premier League again.
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