Cameron Archer is set to be available for transfer this summer but a move may prove difficult for Middlesbrough to complete.
Boro signed Archer during the 2022/23 season, with the striker joining the club on loan from Aston Villa.
Along with Archer, Middlesbrough brought Ryan Giles and Aaron Ramsey to the Riverside on loan deals.
The trio proved superb signings for Michael Carrick and helped the North East outfit finish fourth in the Championship.
However, after Middlesbrough lost in the play-off semi-finals to Coventry City, all three players did not return for the 2023/24 season.
Giles has been linked with a move back to Teesside in the current window, with Hull vice-chairman Tan Kesler delivering a fresh transfer update on Giles earlier this week.
The left-back is not the only ex-loanee who has been tipped to re-sign for Boro this summer, however.
How Middlesbrough can sign Cameron Archer this summer
Archer spent 2023/24 at Sheffield United but has now returned to Aston Villa, who are looking to sell him in the current window.
Middlesbrough fans would no doubt love to see the 22-year-old back on Teesside for 2024/25 but a deal may prove difficult.
Boro News spoke to transfer expert Graeme Bailey regarding Middlesbrough moving for Archer, with a deal expected to be tough to complete.
However, Bailey revealed that Carrick’s side could sign the centre-forward if Emmanuel Latte Lath, who is attracting interest from several clubs, is sold.
Alternatively, Middlesbrough would be able to complete a deal for the Villa man if it was another loan move, rather than a permanent transfer.
It is not known if Villa would consider loaning Archer out again, but it is something to keep an eye on as the window progresses.
Middlesbrough unlikely to sell Emmanuel Latte Lath
While selling Latte Lath would free up funds for an Archer transfer, the Ivorian leaving Boro this summer is unlikely.
Middlesbrough have done an excellent job of keeping hold of their top stars in 2024 and are set to put up a fight to maintain their star forward.
Boro News understands a few clubs have shown interest in Latte Lath since the end of 2023/24 but a massive fee would be required to force Middlesbrough into a sale.
A figure in the region of £20m-£25m has been touted and while not impossible, it is hard to see any team paying that much for the 25-year-old.