Tug-of-war over wanted Leeds United man as relegated club reportedly join race and transfer priority revealed

who are eager to sign the 32-year-old to a permanent contract. Luke Ayling will depart Elland Road on a free transfer this summer.

Ayling, who played on the right side of Michael Carrick’s defense, received high marks for his efforts during his

second half of the 2023–2024 season while on loan at Riverside Stadium. Just over a fortnight ago, after Boro’s

last game of the season, the seasoned full-back announced his intention to stay on Teesside for the foreseeable

future. Since the beginning of the season, he has more assists than any other player in the English Football

League.

However, the Northern Echo claims that Boro and the well-liked Leeds player have not yet reached an

agreement, and Birmingham City has reportedly entered the race to recruit him. The Blues lost to the

Championship on the last day and will attempt to start over in League One the following season. As they get

ready for 2024–2025 in the second division, Sheffield United, led by Chris Wilder, is again mentioned as a

possible bidder.

With 93 Premier League appearances under his belt, Ayling’s extensive expertise spans throughout England’s

top three divisions. He currently resides in North Yorkshire with his young family.

It is already known that Boro and Ayling’s representatives have spoken, and Carrick has identified the player as

his primary priority for this summer.

“Signing Ayling on a permanent deal is seen as a crucial piece of the summer jigsaw after the defender’s hugely

impressive half season loan at the Riverside,” according to the Northern Echo.

Ayling’s contract with Leeds expires on June 30 and he will be free to sign with any team on July 1.

The summer transfer market for EFL clubs opens on Friday, June 14.

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