Boro outline priority signings ahead of crucial summer window

Middlesbrough have finalised their transfer strategy for the summer window, with head coach Kim Hellberg and the club’s recruitment department already identifying the key areas they want to strengthen.

Planning for the upcoming campaign began before the end of last season, with Middlesbrough preparing separate recruitment strategies depending on whether they secured promotion or remained in the Championship. Following their failure to reach the Premier League, attention quickly turned to executing the Championship plan.

The club has already assessed the current squad, identified players who are unlikely to feature prominently next season and drawn up a shortlist of priority targets.

Strengthening the attack is understood to be Boro’s main objective after a season in which they often struggled to convert dominance into goals. Recruiting a proven number nine is high on the agenda, while further additions in attacking positions could follow depending on departures and performances during pre-season.

Adding greater width and creativity in the final third is also expected to be a major focus as Hellberg looks to make his side more dangerous going forward.

Elsewhere, Middlesbrough have opted against pursuing a permanent deal for loan left-back Matt Targett, leaving the club in the market for a new first-choice option in that position.

With the transfer window now open, work is underway behind the scenes as Boro look to assemble a squad capable of challenging near the top of the Championship next season.