MIDDLESBROUGH striker David Nugent is set to leave the club on loan next month – and has told friends he wants to join Leeds United.

A host of Championship sides are chasing the former England international.

4 David Nugent is wanted by a host of Championship clubs on loan Credit: PA:Press Association

After helping Boro win promotion to the Premier League last season, the 31-year-old has struggled for game time this campaign and wants to leave for more match action.

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Aitor Karanka is said to be happy to allow the veteran depart the Riverside in January.

Leeds face competition from Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday and his former side Preston – but a switch to Elland Road is the preferred choice of Nugent.

His only start this campaign came against Fulham in the EFL CUP – producing one goal – with a further four appearances in the top-flight from the bench.

Leeds have been reliant on 11-goal top-scorer Chris Wood, while Wednesday have recently lost star striker Gary Hooper with a hamstring injury.

Nugent has an impressive record in the second tier. His 103 goals in 306 games have helped him fire sides to promotion twice.

4 The striker is believed to prefer a move to Leeds United Credit: Reuters

4 Aitor Karanka is happy to let the forward leave on loan Credit: Reuters

4 Nugent has only started one game for Boro this season Credit: Reuters

And his exploits have led to the ever-increasing interest in snapping him up.

Nugent would not have to move home with a switch to Leeds, allowing him to remain with his family and gain more match time.