Source: Team_Talk
Bates yet to master new Boro deal
The 22-year-old has battled back from three career-threatening knee injuries and is now enjoying his best-ever run in the club's first team.[LNB]He has also emerged a true utility man as the defender is currently holding his own in Boro's central midfield.[LNB]However, Boro are yet to agree a new deal with Bates - whose current deal is set to expire in the summer - contrary to weekend reports which claimed a three-year contract was signed and sealed.[LNB]Indeed a host of clubs including the Toffees, Hammers and Trotters are understood to be keeping close tabs on the situation.[LNB]Boro have only just opened talks with Bates - who will be free to walk away from The Riverside at the end of the season, although any English club wanting to sign him would have to pay compensation.[LNB]"There have been talks, the club (Middlesbrough) has made contact," Bates told the Northern Echo. [LNB]"But I'm just pleased to be playing again after all my injury troubles. [LNB]"I don't want any distractions and I just want to keep playing until the end of the season."[LNB][LNB] Stoke v Middlesbro' Half-time/Full-time: Draw / Middlesbro' 7/1[LNB]
