Transfer Centre

Birmingham City join Sheffield United in race for Leeds United defender?

By Carter White | 28 April 2024

Birmingham join Sheffield United in race for Leeds defender?

Birmingham City are reportedly preparing to join Sheffield United in the race for Leeds United defender Luke Ayling, who is set to become a free agent in the summer.

Birmingham City have reportedly joined Sheffield United in the race for Leeds United defender Luke Ayling.

The 32-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at Elland Road this season under Daniel Farke, leading to a switch for the player during the January transfer window.

In search of regular first-team action, Ayling joined fellow Championship outfit Middlesbrough on loan for the remainder of the 2023-24 campaign.

The right-back has cemented himself as a starter in Michael Carrick's backline since the beginning of the calendar year, appearing in 18 second-tier matches.

Ayling provided an assist for Middlesbrough on Saturday afternoon, when the Teesside club managed a convincing 4-1 victory at Cardiff City in South Wales.

Birmingham City manager Gary Rowett reacts on April 6, 2024 © Reuters

Birmingham enter race for Sheffield United-linked Ayling?

According to The Sun, Sheffield United will face competition in the race for Leeds' Ayling during the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report states that Birmingham are keen on securing the services of the 32-year-old should they avoid relegation to League One this summer.

With the defender's contract at Elland Road expiring at the conclusion of this season, Ayling will be able to depart the Whites on a free transfer.

It is understood that the defender will not receive a fresh contract offer at Leeds, who are looking towards the future as they target promotion to the Premier League.

Since moving from Bristol City to Leeds in the summer of 2016, Ayling has played 268 games in all competitions for the club, scoring on 11 occasions.

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder reacts on April 27, 2024 © Reuters

Summer of change in Sheffield

After Saturday's 5-1 defeat at Newcastle United, Sheffield United's relegation to the Championship is confirmed following just one campaign in the top flight.

The Blades have conceded an eye-watering 97 times in just 35 Premier League matches so far - a record that left them with no chance of avoiding the drop.

A number of first-team defenders are approaching the end of their deals at Bramall Lane, including Mason Holgate, who is on loan from Everton.

Jayden Bogle started at wing-back for United at St James' Park, and with the 23-year-old's contract expiring in the summer, Ayling could be brought in as a replacement.