The Premier League market could help Middlesbrough solve a key problem area this month.
For the most part, Middlesbrough have completed the majority of their summer transfer business without any real issues.
Right-back, midfield, and the centre-forward sports have all been strengthened well so far this summer.
And with limited outgoings, at least none that really had any kind of first-team role, Boro’s squad looked well-stocked going into the 2024/25 Championship season.
However, there remains one key position Michael Carrick will need to address before deadline day next week.
Alex Bangura spent half of the previous campaign on the sidelines and after suffering another injury in pre-season, is once again a long-term absentee.
Following news of Bangura’s latest issue, Middlesbrough were tipped to move for a left-back in the remainder of the window.
Given Lukas Engel is the only fit senior option right now, that decision seems a wise one.
Middlesbrough stance on Ryan Giles and new left-back
Ryan Giles has been linked with Middlesbrough for much of the current transfer window.
The Hull City star previously excelled at the Riverside while on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers but a move for him this month now seems unlikely.
Boro News spoke exclusively to transfer expert Graeme Bailey about Middlesbrough’s left-back pursuit.
And Bailey revealed that while Giles could still be an option, it is now unlikely to happen unless Hull change their stance.
Boro are, however, looking at the Premier League market to find a suitable replacement for Bangura.
He said: “Middlesbrough are looking at left-backs, there’s a few. We’re hearing now about the loan players becoming available etc.
“Obviously whoever comes in has to be better than Engel and Bangura.
“Ryan Giles might still be an option. It’s tough, it’s expensive and it’s expensive for a team in Boro’s position.
“I think unless Hull have a change of heart and the player really pushes I’m not sure I see it but never say never.
“Boro are going to be asking the question in the next two weeks for sure but there are lots of Premier League options out there. There’s a plethora of options becoming available now.”
George McCormick Middlesbrough future update
With Bangura out, Carrick deployed academy starlet George McCormick out of position at left-back during pre-season.
The youngster impressed in several games and was expected to play a more pivotal role in the current campaign.
However, Engel has so far started all three of Boro’s fixtures in 2024/25, with McCormick only featuring off the bench against Leeds United in the League Cup.
In turn, Boro News understands that if Middlesbrough are able to bring in another left-back this month, they will likely loan out McCormick.
Given he needs senior experience to continue his development a loan move makes sense, though it would be nice to see Carrick give him more of a chance on Teesside.