Friend has been a stand-out performer for Middlesbrough this season since his arrival from Doncaster Rovers last summer.
The 25-year-old's performances have not gone unnoticed with Friend's versatility in that he can play left-back as well as centre-back making him an attractive proposition for interested clubs.
West Ham, West Brom and Stoke are all thought to be in the market for a new left-back and Friend is understood to figure highly on their wanted lists.
Middlesbrough are keen to fend off interest in Friend with the former Wolves man establishing himself as a key performer in Tony Mowbray's side.







