Leicester City have joined the race to sign Middlesbrough full-back Isaiah Jones, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Attracting interest

Following Michael Carrick’s arrival at the Riverside Stadium, the 23-year-old has been playing in more of a midfield role rather than his natural wing-back position, but he has still managed to flourish under his new manager’s guidance.

The Wearsider’s contract in the northeast isn’t set to expire until June 2025, but his impressive performances in the Championship appear to have caught the eye of several clubs in the Premier League.

The Latest: Leicester keen on Jones

Speaking to TEAMtalk, Graeme Bailey revealed that Jones is now being monitored by a number of top-flight suitors, with Leicester recently joining in the fray, although Boro are set to stop any move from happening until at least next summer.

He said: “No Middlesbrough player has benefited more from Michael Carrick’s appointment than Isaiah Jones. Carrick has switched him to right midfield from right back. And I am told that he is impressing a lot of clubs.

“He was already on the radar of the likes of Crystal Palace and West Ham. But now others are keen too including the likes of Wolves, Leicester and Southampton. But they can forget about a January raid.

“Boro’s play-off hopes have been reignited and Carrick is going to be backed. Which means they won’t be selling one of their prized assets.”

The Verdict: Justin alternative?

James Justin has been ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing surgery, and whilst it will be difficult to prise him away from Middlesbrough, Jones would be an ideal alternative to have on the right flank.

The Lambeth-born talent has been dubbed a ‘real threat’ going forward by Joe Nicholson, and it’s not surprising given that he has 12 assists and four goals to his name since becoming part of the senior squad at the Riverside (Transfermarkt).

Boro are considered play-off contenders right now after a resurgent autumn, but if their form drops for any reason, Jones could well be tempted to look in the direction of the King Power Stadium to further his development.