Grant Leadbitter linked with Championship rivals

Grant Leadbitter has today been linked with a move away from Middlesbrough FC.

The Boro captain only appeared 13 times last season and with his contract up at the end of the 2017/2018 campaign Boro may be looking to cash in on the midfielder.

Derby had shown an interest in Stoke midfielder Glenn Whelan, however with it looking likely that he will join Aston Villa, The Rams have turned their interest to Leadbitter instead.

With the arrival of Jonny Howson from Norwich and a strong midfield cover of Adam Clayton, Adam Forshaw and Marten de Roon, Leadbitter's first team chances this season may be minimal.

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Boro and Derby have already done business this summer, with Cyrus Christie opting for a switch to the North East.