Leeds United are reportedly set to make a behind-the-scenes decision over Luke Ayling's future at Elland Road.
The Lowdown: Ayling's contract at Leeds
The 31-year-old's current contract at the Yorkshire club is set to expire at the end of June, meaning that he would be able to leave the Whites as a free agent and join another side.
The defender, who was slammed by journalist Paul Brown for the "ridiculous" challenge which saw him sent off against Arsenal last season, has been with Leeds since his move from Bristol City back in 2016 at the age of 24.
With domestic football on hold to accommodate the World Cup in Qatar, it appears that the Elland Road hierarchy have the subject of Ayling's future on their agenda.
The Latest: Leeds to make decision on Ayling
According to a recent report from Leeds Live, the right-back's future at Leeds looks uncertain as things stand, heading into the final months of his contract.
The report adds that a final decision will be made behind the scenes on Ayling’s future in the coming months, and that there is plenty for the club to consider before making a definitive call on the 'fan favourite'.
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The Verdict: Leeds must keep Ayling
Having made 228 appearances for the Whites across all competitions and chipped in with eight goals and 19 assists, it's safe to say that Ayling has become part of the furniture at Elland Road, with Jesse March praising him as a "mature, complete, secure" leader.
However, with just one start in the Premier League to his name this season, it seems as though the 31-year-old is not at the top of the pecking order under the American.
Across his seven league appearances in the current campaign, Ayling has not only registered an assist but also delivered the second-highest number of crosses into the 18-yard box at Elland Road (three).
This highlights how useful he can be when called upon for the team, especially as an extra attacking outlet to feed the Whites' forwards.
Given his experience and what he can offer the team when selected, we feel that the club should offer Ayling a new deal to continue his journey in west Yorkshire.