Daniel Ayala reacts to Leeds United and Stoke City reports ahead of January transfer window

Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala says he’s not thinking about leaving in January – despite reports linking him with Championship rivals Leeds United and Stoke City.
Daniel Ayala signed for Middlesbrough in 2013.Daniel Ayala signed for Middlesbrough in 2013.
Daniel Ayala signed for Middlesbrough in 2013.

The 29-year-old, who signed for Boro in 2013, will be out of contract at the end of this season and negotiations over a new deal are taking time.

Ayala has been one of the standout performers for Jonathan Woodgate’s side this term and it would not be a surprise if offers were made for the Spaniard.

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But the experienced centre-back, who has captained Boro for most of the campaign, is trying to stay focused.

“Of course I see all the speculation, my friends send me all the stories and that is normal,” said the defender. “But really I have to tell you that I only concentrate on Middlesbrough and I’m not thinking about leaving in January or anything like that.

“Unless something really big happens - and I don’t think it will - I will definitely be at Middlesbrough until the end of the season. I have been here seven years and I’ve said before, I love this club. I don’t really think about going elsewhere.

“I just want to stay here and let’s see what happens.”

Ayala also admitted January can be a distracting time for players, especially with uncertainty over in and outgoings.

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“Yes, of course,” said the defender when asked if January can be a disruptive period. “But the way I see it is that I am not going anywhere.

“It is really important for the club to do some good business and bring in two or three loan players because at the moment we have a thin squad and we need some players.

“I think we need players in every area. We are lacking in every department. Especially at the moment we have a lot of injuries and a lot of big players have been out.”

When asked if there have been any developments with his contract negotiations, Ayala said: “Not at the moment. I’m not really concentrating on my contract right now.

“We need to focus on picking up points and we can soon be in mid-table.”