Middlesbrough’s Daniel Ayala is wanted by Sheffield Wednesday.
Middlesbrough’s Daniel Ayala celebrates
Sheffield Wednesday are reportedly ready to put new Middlesbrough manager Garry Monk to the test, by making a move for defender Daniel Ayala.
The Sheffield Star reported that the Owls are keen on signing the centre-back, with Newcastle’s Grant Hanley an alternative.
It may be easier to sign Hanley, as Newcastle are in the Premier League and do not consider Sheffield Wednesday a competitor any longer.
Middlesbrough are back in the Championship after relegation from the top flight, and Sheffield Wednesday will be one of the teams battling to beat them to promotion.
Sheffield Wednesday Manager Carlos Carvalhal
The Owls have been in the play-offs for the last two seasons, and are strong bets to finish inside the top six again.
The centre-back was a bit-part player for Middlesbrough last season, playing 14 matches in the Premier League.
Yet under Garry Monk he could have a fresh start. In the previous season in which Boro clinched promotion from the Championship, he featured 35 times, and can be an asset to the club this campaign.
Middlesbrough’s Daniel Ayala celebrates
With questions persisting over the future of talisman Ben Gibson, Middlesbrough would be seriously weakened if they let both leave. Ayala would be ideal to step in and play more regularly if their prize asset is sold.
At the very least, Monk must not rush into a sale, and should take a close look at the defender. At Leeds the centre-backs really benefited from his coaching, and he will want to look to see if Ayala can do the same.
Middlesbrough’s Daniel Ayala in action with Brighton’s Beram Kayal
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
