Daniel Farke has responded in Friday’s press conference when asked about new reports this week that Middlesbrough want to sign Leeds United defender Luke Ayling in the January transfer window.
Ayling, 32, has not played a single minute for Leeds since November 3, missing the last 11 Championship games. Indeed, of those 11, he has only been involved in the squad on four occasions for Daniel Farke.
With his contract expiring in the summer, Ayling has been linked with the exit door. Phil Hay says it is unlikely that Ayling – along with Stuart Dallas and Liam Cooper – will see their Leeds contracts renewed.
Reports emerged this week, with the January window in full swing, that Middlesbrough want to sign Ayling. Michael Carrick discussed any possible signings, with Boro also linked with Charlie Cresswell.
Farke was asked in Friday’s press conference, ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Peterborough, if Ayling could leave with Middlesbrough linked. But Farke said that no players have asked him to leave.
“No. I am not interested, I share quite often my appreciation of Luke. What I think about him, his value for us. If you comment on each and every rumour, we would not have any time on the training pitch.
“We just comment when business is done. No player is in my office saying he wants to go. Everyone is really buying into it. No player has told me they want to leave,” Farke said, as per the club’s YouTube.
Daniel Farke discusses reports Middlesbrough want Luke Ayling
It would be a brilliant move for Ayling. To go and join a high-flying Championship club under an exciting manager. But the chances are that Ayling will want to see out his Leeds spell before leaving the club.
As stated, it is unlikely he gets a new deal. But jumping ship halfway through the season is not in his character. He is a loyal servant to the club, approaching eight years at Leeds. Unlikely, that he goes.
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