Middlesbrough is setting its sights on strengthening its midfield and securing a permanent deal for Luke Ayling before turning attention to its forward line this summer. The club has decided not to pursue a permanent deal for Lewis O’Brien, who was on loan from Nottingham Forest, but reinforcing the midfield remains a top priority.
Michael Carrick, Boro’s manager, has a solid foundation with captain Jonny Howson, Hayden Hackney, who will be fully fit for pre-season, and Dan Barlaser. Additionally, there’s optimism surrounding Law McCabe, who had a promising season and made his first start against Watford on the final day. However, the club is keen on adding a new type of midfielder, different from O’Brien, whose time at Boro was marred by injury.
Securing Luke Ayling on a permanent basis is viewed as a crucial move. Ayling, who impressed during his loan spell, will become a free agent this summer as his Leeds United contract expires. Negotiations for a permanent deal are already in progress, with Ayling himself stating that an agreement is close. However, Boro faces competition from Sheffield United, led by Chris Wilder, and Birmingham City, though the latter’s chances are slim following their relegation to League One.
In addition to midfield reinforcements, Boro is also looking to bolster its forward line with another striker. The club intends to be patient in this pursuit to ensure they find the right fit to complement Emmanuel Latte Lath, who ended the season in excellent form, and Josh Coburn, who will be fully fit for pre-season. Boro has been linked with Tottenham’s Will Lankshear, a 19-year-old who joined Spurs from Sheffield United but has yet to break into the first team. The club has been monitoring Lankshear’s progress with Tottenham’s Under-21s and will keep an eye on his situation.
With Sam Greenwood returning to Leeds United after his loan spell, Boro is also in the market for an attacking midfielder. The club aims to enhance its offensive options to better compete in the upcoming season.
