Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg addresses Arfsten and Vitek transfer plans

Kim Hellberg hints at more Middlesbrough arrivals after praising summer recruitment

Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg believes there is still more business to come before the transfer window closes after applauding the club’s recruitment team for their work so far this summer.

Boro wrapped up their pre-season schedule with an entertaining 3-3 draw against La Liga side Espanyol, with new signings Sebastian Berhalter and Will Lankshear making encouraging first appearances following their moves from Vancouver Whitecaps and Tottenham Hotspur.

Another addition is expected to arrive shortly, with Max Arfsten travelling from the United States to complete his move from Columbus Crew. Reports suggest the overall package, including add-ons, is worth around £5.6 million, with the American expected to become Middlesbrough’s first-choice left-back despite operating further forward for his previous club.

Recruitment is not expected to stop there.

Middlesbrough remain in the market for another goalkeeper, with Manchester United’s Radek Vitek understood to be one of their leading targets after talks between the two clubs. The Championship side are also prepared to consider offers for Seny Dieng, while George Edmundson, Micah Hamilton, Sontje Hansen and Kaly Sene could all leave if suitable opportunities arise.

Hellberg admitted he expects further movement before the deadline but expressed complete confidence in the club’s recruitment process.

The Swede praised chairman Steve Gibson, head of football Kieran Scott and the wider recruitment department, describing their collaboration as a major strength and expressing optimism about what the remainder of the window could bring.

He also acknowledged that integrating a number of new arrivals while welcoming back injured players has created a unique pre-season, but believes the squad is beginning to come together.

Berhalter impressed with an assist and another set-piece delivery that led to a goal against Espanyol, while Lankshear showed promising signs leading the attack despite having an early header ruled out for offside.

Hellberg believes the blend of new signings and returning players will strengthen the squad significantly, highlighting Alfie Jones as another important player nearing full fitness.

With Middlesbrough preparing to begin their competitive campaign against Wrexham in the Carabao Cup, Hellberg is confident the club is building a squad capable of challenging for success, while leaving the door open for further additions before the transfer window shuts.