Middlesbrough FC's Sheffield United-linked stalwart Dael Fry 'monitored' by Burnley amid contract talks
A fresh claim regarding transfer interest in Middlesbrough stalwart Dael Fry
Middlesbrough stalwart Dael Fry is reportedly being monitored by Burnley amid uncertainty over his future at the Riverside.
The 28-year-old has been on the Boro books since he was seven years old and has made 296 appearances for the club at senior level.
An imposing centre-back, he has spent years as a key figure for the club but has not yet put pen to paper on a new deal. His contract is due to expire at the end of the month, although Middlesbrough recently confirmed talks over a potential renewal were ongoing.
Burnley linked with Middlesbrough stalwart
According to TEAMtalk, Burnley are keeping an eye on developments following their relegation from the Premier League.
Fry is said to be in the sights of the Clarets as they brace for the potential loss of star centre-back Maxime Esteve.
It has been suggested Burnley will consider a number of options, but that former Rotherham United loanee Fry is firmly on their radar.
Burnley were last linked with Fry in April, when it was also claimed he was of interest to Sheffield United and Charlton Athletic. League One champions Lincoln City were also reported as admirers of Fry, who represented England at various youth levels.
Before being prised away from the Riverside by Wolverhampton Wanderers, former Boro boss Rob Edwards spoke candidly about Fry’s contractual situation in October.
Contract uncertainty
Regarding Fry and goalkeeper Sol Brynn, he said: “In the background, those conversations will be going on already, which I’m aware of. We know where everyone is at, contract wise.
"Soon enough, if people continue to keep doing what they’re doing, then I think there’ll be conversations happening.
"But also, at the moment, we want full focus on what’s important and that’s the here and the now and the football. But obviously the boys’ futures are important as well. That will all be taken care of.”
Brynn signed a new deal in December, committing to Middlesbrough until 2030, but Fry is yet to put pen to paper.