Middlesbrough are preparing for life without Finn Azaz as the attacking midfielder attracts growing interest from the Premier League, with Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth all tracking his situation closely.
Azaz, 24, has enjoyed an outstanding season under Michael Carrick, contributing heavily in the final third and emerging as one of the Championship’s most consistent creators. But with Boro failing to clinch a play-off spot, the club now faces the prospect of losing one of its prized assets just five months after securing him on a permanent deal from Aston Villa.
Reports suggest that scouts from all three interested clubs have been monitoring Azaz in recent months, particularly during his appearances for the Republic of Ireland, where he scored his first senior goal in a win over Bulgaria in March.
Leeds Lead the Charge as Top-Flight Return Fuels Ambition
Of the sides monitoring Azaz, newly-promoted Leeds United appear to be pushing hardest. Manager Daniel Farke is eager to strengthen his midfield ahead of the Premier League campaign and sees Azaz as a player who can add quality and versatility in advanced positions.
With doubts over Brenden Aaronson’s consistency and concerns about squad depth in attacking areas, Azaz fits the profile Leeds are seeking—creative, proven at Championship level, and still developing. A move to Elland Road would offer Premier League football and the chance to play a central role in a survival push.
The club has learned lessons from watching Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich all suffer immediate relegation last season, and they are determined to act early in the market to avoid the same fate.
Palace and Bournemouth Offer Competition
Leeds will not have a free run at the Irishman, however. Crystal Palace have a strong track record of developing EFL talent, with Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise prime examples. The Eagles are fresh from an FA Cup win and Europa League qualification, making them a highly attractive proposition for a player like Azaz.
Bournemouth are also long-term admirers and see Azaz as part of a targeted recruitment plan under Andoni Iraola, who has already brought in Championship talent like Antoine Semenyo and Alex Scott in recent windows. The Cherries narrowly missed out on Europe this term and are aiming to deepen their squad for another push.
With his contract running until 2027, Middlesbrough are under no pressure to sell cheaply—but interest is intensifying, and a summer departure now looks increasingly likely.
Writer’s View
Losing Finn Azaz would be a bitter pill for Middlesbrough after just half a season of seeing him in their colours. But this is the reality of Championship football—fail to go up, and the vultures circle.
For Leeds, this is a chance to secure a player with Premier League potential at the perfect time. Azaz has shown he can deliver in high-pressure situations, and his intelligence in the final third would add genuine depth to Farke’s options.
