According to the Hartlepool Mail, Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala would have to take a pay cut in order to stay at the club.
It’s claimed that it’s ‘clear’ that Ayala would be forced to accept reduced terms if he wants to stay with Boro, with his contract ending this summer.
Boro are looking to cut costs, and Ayala’s deal – which was signed during Boro’s time in the Premier League – is too expensive for them now.
That’s possibly why talks with Ayala stalled earlier this year. It now looks increasingly likely that the Spaniard will be moving on this summer.
A number of clubs will surely want Ayala, but Leeds United have been most strongly linked. The Daily Star report that Leeds want Ayala no matter what division they are in next season.
The Mirror (June 1st, p49) claimed that Ayala is now expected to join Leeds on a free transfer this summer, bolstering Marcelo Bielsa’s defensive options.
The 29-year-old has Premier League and Championship experience, whilst Leeds will need at least one centre back to come in given that Ben White’s loan deal ends this summer.
That could well be Ayala, and amid claims that he would have to drop his wages to stay at Boro, a move away – possibly to Leeds – seems even more likely.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
