Middlesbrough’s stance on signing a ‘great player’ this summer has been clarified following reports of recent interest.
Middlesbrough have had an active summer transfer window so far with four new names already through the door.
Luke Ayling arrived shortly after the close of the 2023/24 season, with his signing followed by Delano Burgzorg, Aidan Morris, and Harley Hunt.
Hull City’s owner has also opened the door to left-back Ryan Giles making a return to the Riverside this summer.
Most recently, meanwhile, the Teessiders were credited with an interest in West Brom midfielder, John Swift.
Swift made 37 Championship appearances for the Baggies in the previous campaign, scoring nine and assisting one.
The 29-year-old is an experienced midfielder and was previously dubbed a ‘great player’ by Marcelo Bielsa, as per Leeds Live.
Football Insider reported that Middlesbrough were plotting a raid for the West Brom midfielder, with his current side open to offers.
Middlesbrough not planning to move for John Swift
Swift only has one year left on his current contract, meaning he could be available for below his market value.
However, despite the recent claims from Football Insider, it does not look as though Boro are plotting a move for the Englishman.
The Northern Echo published a report following the recent links to Swift to clarify the situation.
They claim that while Swift was discussed by Boro’s recruitment team at the end of last season, the club have no plans to pursue a move for him.
A transfer to the North East for the 29-year-old was mooted but Middlesbrough are understood to have moved on from the player.
Middlesbrough may still need another midfielder
While Middlesbrough have moved on from Swift, the club should still look to bring in another midfielder this summer.
Morris was signed from Columbus Crew but even with the addition of the USA international, there are question marks over the quality depth in that area.
Jonny Howson is now 36 years of age and while still a solid option, he is unlikely to be able to complete a full 46-game campaign.
Dan Barlaser has also attracted interest from Turkey, while Paddy McNair and Lewis O’Brien left Boro over the summer.
Middlesbrough have enough bodies in midfield right now but if they want to make a proper promotion push, they should perhaps look at improving the quality of Michael Carrick’s options.