Ayling's move to Middlesbrough made permanent

Luke Ayling joined Middlesbrough on loan from Leeds in January

Middlesbrough have signed Luke Ayling on a permanent two-year deal with his contract at Leeds United about to expire.

Ayling initially joined Boro on loan in January where he made 19 appearances and had eight assists.

The 32-year-old will spend the next two years at the Riverside, having been with Leeds since 2016.

"We're delighted that Luke is staying with us," said Boro head coach Michael Carrick.

Ayling was part of the Leeds squad that won promotion to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020.

But he lost his place during last season and went to Middlesbrough on loan.

He leaves Elland Road having played 268 games and scored 11 goals following his move from Bristol City eight years ago.

Carrick said he was delighted to have him on board as the Teesside club's first transfer of the summer.

"After coming in on loan in January, Luke settled in very quickly and made a big impact, bringing his character and personality to the group," Carrick told the club's website.

"He knows what it takes to be a success in this league."