Middlesbrough winger Rajiv van La Parra has revealed that promotion rivals Leeds United were keen on signing him during the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old endured a tough first half of the campaign in the Premier League with Huddersfield as he struggled to get regular game time under David Wagner.

And, it was Tony Pulis and Boro who won the race for the ex-Wolves man, as he arrived on Teesside until the end of the season.

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However, van La Parra told Dutch media outlet ELF Voetbal that he had other options - including the Whites:

"I indicated that I wanted to go to a club where I could go for minutes. Middlesbrough and Leeds United immediately reported to my agent. Middlesbrough’s (interest) was more concrete than Leeds."

But, it's fair to say the move hasn't worked out for the club or the player since.

The ex-Heerenveen man has featured in just three league games since arriving at the start of January and he was subbed at half-time in his only start, which came in an FA Cup tie against Peterborough.

The Verdict

When van La Parra signed for Boro it seemed like a good move as he has proven himself at this level over the years.

It's also not surprising to hear that Leeds were interested, as he has qualities that would've helped Marcelo Bielsa's team.

At the moment, he's probably regretting not moving to Elland Road as things haven't gone to plan for him in the north-east, although there's time to change that.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.