Sheffield United are keeping a careful eye on Middlesbrough loan defender Luke Ayling, whose contract with Leeds United expires at the conclusion of the current season, according to sources.
The fullback has been at Elland Road since 2016, when he joined from Bristol City. However, under head coach Daniel Farke this season, the 32-year-old was reduced to a squad member and was eventually loaned out to the Riverside Stadium for a brief time.
Since joining Boro, the experienced defender has made 17 Championship games and has played a significant role in getting Michael Carrick’s team back on track and in contention for the play-offs, even if their recent surge in form came a few weeks late.
If the Teesside club fails to finish in the top six before the regular season finishes in early May, Ayling will have only two games left on his contract with Leeds United, casting his future in doubt.
Nonetheless, other clubs are keeping an eye on his status with the Whites. According to Alan Nixon’s exclusive Patreon report, relegation-threatened Premier League team Sheffield United are hoping to recruit Ayling on a free transfer after his contract ends.
According to Nixon, Ayling is regarded as a vital acquisition for the Blades, who will most certainly be in the Championship next season after scoring only 16 points in 33 top-flight games this season. He has a market value of £850,000, according to Transfermarkt, but he may be signed for free in just a few months.
Ayling is still only 32 years old and may be a valuable asset to any Championship squad. Unfortunately, his future is no longer at Elland Road, which may be a sad farewell for all involved, but a move to Bramall Lane or a permanent stay at Middlesbrough are both excellent choices for the fullback.
The Englishman has three promotions on his resume, so he understands what it takes to be promoted. This experience might be beneficial for Sheffield United or Boro next season, as both clubs aim to return to the Premier League.
