Kaine Kesler-Hayden lists two big factors behind Coventry City move amid Middlesbrough interest

Kaine Kesler Hayden listed the project and geography as the main factors behind his move to Coventry City, with Middlesbrough also believed to have been in the race to sign him.

Kesler-Hayden is understood to have been a Boro target this summer as they looked to strengthen Rob Edwards’ options for the right side of defence after Anfernee Dijksteel was released. As ever, Boro had contingency plans in place and have quickly moved on in their recruitment plans, and always appreciated that securing Kesler-Hayden would be difficult.

Aston Villa were keen to secure a quick sale of the academy graduate, who impressed in recent loan spells at Plymouth Argyle and Preston North End. In the end, the Midlands native favoured the move to Coventry, and a £3.5m deal was completed on Tuesday. As well as Boro, Southampton were also said to be keen.

Speaking in his first club interview, Kesler-Hayden said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be here. It seemed like the perfect move for me. There were a lot of things that went into it [his decision]. The project – I saw last season how good of a team Coventry are, and they were really unlucky not to make it up into the Premier League. I’m hoping we can do that again this season.

“Also, it’s very local for me, which is perfect. I don’t have to travel too far. It feels like the right time in my career [to make a permanent exit from Aston Villa]. After a lot of loans in recent seasons, now felt like the right time to make that next step.

“I spoke to the gaffer and he was also a big part in why I signed. I believe in the project and he showed me some videos and analysis and stuff, and how I can fit into the team. It seemed like the perfect place for me to come. I can’t wait to get started now.”

As Boro quickly move on to their alternative right-back/wing-back options, they are also keen to strengthen at centre-back, centre-midfield, wide forward and up front. Edwards has already sat down with head of football Kieran Scott to go over recruitment plans and the type of player he needs in each position. Left wing-back is less of a priority, but should Luton star Alfie Doughty become available as a fair price this summer then Boro would be interested in doing a deal.