Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala has refused to play on in their fight against relegation with his contract set to expire amid interest from Leeds.
Sportsmail understands that the Spaniard - one of Boro’s highest earners - has indicated that he does not want to sign the disclaimer that would allow him to remain at the club until the end of the season.
Ayala, 29, has told boss Jonathan Woodgate that he intends to leave when his contract runs out on June 30 rather than staying on in the short-term.
Championship leaders Leeds have shown an interest and sources suspect Ayala is now focused on what could be a lucrative free-transfer move, preferring not to risk injury having recently recovered from an ankle problem.