Middlesbrough are leading the race with Stoke City and Crystal Palace for highly rated teen Jordan Stewart, according to Eddie Patterson.

The 19-year-old winger has been on trial at Teeside in the last few weeks and is considered to be one of the brightest young talents in Nothern Ireland, where he plays for Glentoran. He has recently returned to Glentoran after his Boro trial.

Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Stoke City are both eyeing moves for the Danske Bank Premiership player, but Glentoran manager Eddie Patterson says Boro are winning the race.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: “By all accounts Jordan has left a good impression on Middlesbrough but like any transfer the club has to weigh up several factors before making a decision.

“I was talking to their Academy manager and it seems that they are quite pleased with the qualities Jordan is showing in games and in training.

“I will not stand in any youngster’s way when there is a possibility of a move to full-time football and neither will Glentoran. There’s no question Jordan is one of our game’s outstanding young players.

“It’s great for him that he has this opportunity and hopefully a big club can recognise his potential. I know Stoke City and Crystal Palace also want Jordan over for a trial and it’s fantastic news because he deserves a chance in the full-time game.”

Aitor Karanka has already confirmed that Middlesbrough's business is finished for the January, after signing Adam Forshaw from Wigan Athletic, but it seems that they are already evaluating players to sign during the summer.

It's been a fantastic season for Middlesbrough, who are on a high after beating Manchester City in the FA Cup, they're currently third in the Sky Bet Championship on 50 points.