Leeds United tracking Middlesbrough defender ahead of summer swoop

While all Premier League and EFL football has been suspended until April 30 at the earliest as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, it hasn’t stopped the transfer rumour mill.

And Championship promotion hopefuls Leeds United, a point clear of second-placed West Brom, have been credited with a strong interest in the Boro centre-back.

The long-serving Spanish defender is reported to be on their list of transfer targets, with the defender out of contract this summer.

The Daily Star report: “On-loan Brighton defender Ben White has been outstanding at the heart of the Leeds defence this term but the Seagulls are unwilling to sell him leaving Bielsa with a hole to fill alongside skipper Liam Cooper.

“Ayala is out of contract this summer and will leave the Riverside even if Boro avoid relegation into League One.”

Ayala is settled in the area and a move to Leeds would mean he wouldn’t have to move house, which may appeal, while there is also reported to be interest in him from elsewhere too.

Ayala - who is enjoying life under Jonathan Woodgate at the Riverside - is currently out injured with an ankle knock and hasn’t featured since January 1.

Speaking earlier in the season, Ayala said: ”I am taking a lot more responsibility this season and it is not just because of being the captain.

“When you look around you there are a lot more younger players.

“When I first came here I was one of the younger players and there were a lot of older, experienced players around me. Now it is the other way and now it is my job to help and guide the younger players.

“It is a responsibility on my shoulders but I think that is what I always wanted. I always wanted to be a captain.

“For me it is quite good. I am quite pleased that the manager has trusted me,” said the Spaniard who came through the academy at Liverpool before joining Boro from Norwich in 2013.