Kieran Scott has provided an update on Middlesbrough’s future transfer plans.
Boro had an excellent 2024 summer transfer window that both Kieran Scott and Michael Carrick should be pleased with.
Middlesbrough signed nine new players in the most recent window, with fresh options brought in to strength every outfield position.
However, while the transfer window has been shut for only a few weeks, those in a position of power at the Riverside are already planning for the future.
On paper, the Teessiders’ squad does not need to be strengthened too much. But in a recent interview, Scott confirmed Middlesbrough are looking at out-of-contract players going into 2025.
With this in mind, Boro News have taken a look at three players who are of out contract next year that Middlesbrough should sign.
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Axel Tuanzebe
If there is one area of the pitch Middlesbrough may need to improve going forward it is centre-back.
Rav van den Berg and Matt Clarke are quality options but the persistent injury issues to Dael Fry and Darragh Lenihan are causing Carrick a headache.
In turn, another centre-back should probably be targeted in the upcoming windows and Axel Tuanzebe could be the perfect option.
The 26-year-old left Manchester United as a free agent in 2023 and has since signed for Ipswich Town, helping them win promotion from the Championship in 2032/24.
But Tuanzebe, who can also operate at right-back, will be out of contract at the end of the season and Boro should look to snap him up.
Emil Krafth
While not a problem currently, Middlesbrough may be looking to strengthen at right-back next year.
Luke Ayling is 33 years of age and Tommy Smith, who has been sidelined for around nine months, is 32.
One player who could bring some more experience to Boro’s backline and who will be a free agent in 2025 is Emil Krafth.
The Swede has made 89 appearances for Newcastle United in all competitions but is no longer a regular starter at right-back.
And with the Magpies looking to return to the Champions League, they will most likely be willing to let Krafth leave on a free, or potentially in a cut-price January transfer.
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Will Hughes
Middlesbrough will need to dip into the transfer market to sign a new central midfielder in 2025.
Jonny Howson is in the final year of his contract and the 36-year-old is not expected to renew for another season.
Behind Howson, it is clear Boro need to upgrade Dan Barlaser, who continues to underperform every time he features.
Will Hughes could be an excellent replacement for Howson and would certainly be an upgrade on Barlaser.
The 29-year-old has made 87 appearances for Crystal Palace but is slowly being fazed out of the team by Oliver Glasner and is yet to complete 90 minutes in 2024/25.