Report: Leeds United’s Daniel Ayala transfer plans could be ‘scrapped’ if promoted

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Leeds United may drop their long-standing interest in the signature of Daniel Ayala this summer if they are promoted to the Premier League. 

The Whites have been linked with a potential move for the Middlesbrough defender for a number of months. 

Much of that is likely down to director of football Victor Orta’s previous relationship with the player, with the Northern Echo reporting in March that Leeds are monitoring the 29-year-old’s situation. The Daily Star then claimed the Spaniard will leave Boro when his contract expires at the end of the current season, giving Leeds an opportunity to swoop in. 

Orta, despite common belief, did not bring his countryman to Middlesbrough during his time as director of football at the Riverside. He did however negotiate a new deal with the player during their time together on Teesside and he will have a prior relationship with the experienced Championship star. 

So the links make sense. However, Leeds seem to only have Ayala on their radar if they remain in the second-tier next term. The Northern Echo is suggesting that winning promotion to the Premier League could see interest in Ayala ‘scrapped’ by the West Yorkshire side. 

Leeds are likely to need a new centre-back next season, with Ben White wanted back at Brighton. However, it would appear Ayala is not considered of the quality necessary to improve the Leeds United team should they win promotion to the Premier League.