Brentford could beat Leeds United to the signing of Middlesbrough centre-back Dael Fry this summer, according to a fresh report which has emerged.

The Lowdown: Fry impresses at Boro

The 23-year-old has made a name for himself at Boro in recent times, shining at the heart of the Championship side's defence under Neil Warnock.

The 11-cap England under-21 international has already made 138 appearances for his current club and was once lauded as a potential 'great footballer' by former manager Aitor Karanka.

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The Latest: Brentford could beat Leeds to signing

According to Football League World, Brentford currently lead the race to sign Fry this summer, having earned promotion to the Premier League for the first time.

Leeds, Burnley, Wolves and Southampton are all believed to have scouted the 23-year-old as well, however, as the battle to sign him intensifies.

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The Verdict: Not a major issue

While Fry is clearly a young defender with plenty of promise, Marcelo Bielsa may not feel that centre-back is a pressing area to enhance at Elland Road ahead of next season.

The Argentine already has Diego Llorente, Liam Cooper, Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk to call upon, so unless one of those leaves, having a fifth centre-back could be deemed as needless.

Should Leeds end up signing Fry, it would certainly be no bad thing - he averaged 1.8 interceptions and 3.9 clearances per game in the Championship last season - but Brentford may need him more than the Whites currently do, and that could tip the scales if a bidding war materialises.

In other news, Leeds have reportedly been offered the chance to sign an exciting English talent this summer. Find out who it is here.