Spanish side join race for Ayala

SWANSEA are interested in signing free agent Daniel Ayala but face competition from Spain.

The former Middlesbrough centre-back has been without a club since July 1 and his next destination could well be SA1 with Steve Cooper keen to add an experienced central defender to his ranks.

Having picked up Jake Bidwell as a free agent last summer, Ayala could represent good value and bring experience to the Swans’ rearguard - especially if Mike van der Hoorn leaves as expected.

Cooper has already talked about not spending money this summer, so a free agent capture of the 29-year-old makes perfect sense for the club.

But Spanish club Leganes are understood to be keen on Ayala. However, they’ve just been relegated from La Liga which could affect their transfer plans.

Birmingham City have also been linked, with the club having recently appointed Aitor Karanka, who worked with Ayala at Middlesbrough, as their new manager.

As for the Swans, they were interested in the Spaniard previously while Cooper worked with him in the youth system at Liverpool.

As well as boasting vast experience in the Championship, having captained Middlesbrough during nearly seven years on Teeside, Ayala has also turned out for Hull, Derby, Norwich and Nottingham Forest.

As well as Ayala, the Swans have identified a number of areas to strengthen over the summer.

Another central midfielder will be high up on Cooper’s shopping list, as will a number 10 and two new strikers if topscorer Andre Ayew departs.