Lincoln City were linked with Dael Fry earlier in the window, a rumour we poured scorn on at the time, and in the same outlet’s latest piece on the defender, we are not mentioned.
Sports Boom is not an outlet with a great record in getting Imps’ stuff right, and a move for Middlesbrough’s captain felt a little incredulous, even by this summer’s crazy standards. He hasn’t agreed a new deal at the Riverside, and a fresh report has linked West Ham United as a serious option should the defender leave the only team to have been beaten over two legs in a play-off semi-final, and in the final in the same season.
The 28-year-old is approaching the end of his current deal with Boro, meaning he could soon become available without a transfer fee unless fresh terms are agreed. Middlesbrough have been in talks with Fry over an extension and are understood to have made their offer, but the situation has yet to reach a conclusion.
That uncertainty has opened the door for rival interest, at one time thought to include us. Now, West Ham are believed to be among the clubs most keen on the centre back. After dropping into the Championship, the Hammers are preparing for a major reset and defensive reinforcements are expected to be high on their list of priorities.
Middlesbrough, though, have not given up hope of keeping him. Fry came through the club’s system and has spent his senior career with Boro, making him a particularly important figure both on and off the pitch. However, with his contract situation now reaching a decisive point, the next move is no longer solely in the club’s hands.
Blackburn Rovers, Burnley and Sheffield United are also credited with an interest in the latest report, although when you include Boro, that is almost 20% of the Championship, so it’s not exactly narrowing the field. West Ham’s financial position could give them an advantage if they decide to push ahead, even following relegation, the London club are likely to be able to offer terms beyond the reach of several Championship rivals.
For Fry, the decision is likely to come down to more than money. Staying at Middlesbrough would mean continuing at the club where he has built his career, but West Ham can offer a fresh challenge and the prospect of playing a major role in a promotion push. By the sounds of the latest report, one decision he doesn’t have to make is whether to punch in Jez George’s number and ask to see one of our in-depth presentations on the club.
Which, let’s be honest, is no real surprise at all.
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