Long-serving Leeds United defender Luke Ayling is expected to leave Elland Road after the 2023/24 season.
Carlton Palmer has urged Middlesbrough to sign Luke Ayling on a permanent deal this summer. Ayling has prospered since joining Boro on loan from Leeds United in the January transfer window, starting 11 Championship games.
The 32-year-old, a fan favourite at Elland Road, is unlikely to be offered new terms to extend his tenure with the Whites. His current contract runs out in the summer.
Ex-United midfielder Palmer told Football League World: “Luke is 32 now, but he comes with bags of experience. He’s 100% committed and great to have around the dressing room, and I suppose with Michael Carrick having a young squad it would be good to have a bit of experience around.
“So, depending on his salary, I believe Middlesbrough will attempt to offer Ayling a short-term contract, perhaps a year. He’ll assist the young players come through, so it makes sense if they can reach a deal on his contract and salaries.”
Michael Carrick, the Boro manager, was questioned about Ayling’s future following their midweek victory against Birmingham City. “You’re always playing for something and as it stands at the moment that’s obviously what’s next,” Carrick added.
“Looking at him, that’s not at the forefront of his mind at all. He’s all in, he’s desperate to do well and win games for us. We’ll see, that will play out how it’s going to play out over the next few months.”
Ayling is expected to feature in Middlesbrough’s home encounter with Blackburn Rovers tomorrow afternoon. The right back is in good form, having contributed three assists in as many matches.
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