England

Middlesbrough's David Wheater Turns Down Aston Villa Move - Report

The Boro defender wants to remain loyal and help his side win promotion back to the Premier League...

Jul 3, 2009 1:35:19 AM

EPL: David Wheater - Amr Zaki, Middlesbrough - Wigan Athletic (PA)

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EPL: David Wheater - Amr Zaki, Middlesbrough - Wigan Athletic (PA)

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David Wheater

David Wheater is set to shun a move to Aston Villa, preferring to remain at Middlesbrough instead.

Having been relegated, Boro are expected to lose some of their best players, but Wheater remains committed to the club. According to The Sun, Villa offered £8 million for his services, but the England U-21 defender turned down the move.

Wheater, who underwent knee surgery in May, said, "I'm certain I'll be ready for the first match against Sheffield United on August 7.

"We just have to concentrate on trying to go straight back up again. And if we keep as many players as we can, we have a great chance."

Birmingham City, Stoke City and Bolton Wanderers are also reportedly interested in Wheater, but they may pursue other targets following these developments.

Arjun Miglani, Goal.com