West Ham named as 'serious' suitors for Middlesbrough FC's Dael Fry amid Sheffield United 'monitoring'
West Ham United named among admirers of Sheffield United-linked Middlesbrough stalwart Dael Fry
West Ham United have been credited with interest in Middlesbrough’s out-of-contract stalwart Dael Fry.
The 28-year-old has spent his entire career at the Riverside and is just four outings shy of hitting the 300-appearance mark.
However, an agreement over a new contract has not yet been reached with his deal due to expire at the end of the month.
A clutch of clubs have been linked with Fry, who was part of the Middlesbrough side beaten by Hull City in last month’s Championship play-off final.
Dael Fry linked with West Ham move
Sheffield United are among those to have been credited with interest, as are Burnley and Blackburn Rovers.
According to SportsBoom, Fry is being monitored by the aforementioned trio, but West Ham have emerged as the most serious suitors.
The Hammers are preparing for life in the Championship after suffering relegation from the Premier League and Fry boasts a wealth of experience at second-tier level.
He would arguably be a shrewd free transfer addition for the London club, but it would be a bitter blow for Middlesbrough.
Talks between Fry and Middlesbrough are thought to have progressed, although fans are still waiting for the announcement of an agreement being made.
Middlesbrough’s squad reshuffle
If Fry does seek pastures new, he will join six other players who are moving on when their Middlesbrough deals expire.
The Championship club have released goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin, defender Darragh Lenihan, midfielders Dan Barlaser and Alex Gilbert, winger Sammy Silvera and forward Marcus Forss.
Middlesbrough have not yet made a foray into the transfer market but the rumour mill is already starting to turn at speed. Their budget could be boosted by the sale of midfielder Hayden Hackney, who has attracted plenty of Premier League admirers.