Middlesbrough have reportedly turned their attentions to signing A.F.C Bournemouth defender Jack Simpson according to the Northern Echo. 

It had previously been claimed that Boro were interested in signing Burnley's Ben Gibson, but the Premier League club aren't thought to be willing to consider any offers for the central defender.

That has led to Jonathan Woodgate turning his attentions to an alternative target, with a potential loan move for Simpson on the cards before the January transfer window closes.

Middlesbrough currently have four defenders out injured, so it's somewhat of a necessity for the Boro boss to add reinforcements to that area of the team.

Simpson has been restricted in terms of game time with the Cherries this season, and has made just six senior appearances in all competitions this term for Eddie Howe's men, as they struggle to stay afloat in the Premier League.

We take a look at TWO pros and TWO cons to Middlesbrough sealing a deal for Simpson in this month's transfer window.

Pro: He'll be keen to showcase his talent. 

Simpson hasn't had much of a chance with Eddie Howe's side this season, which is understandable given they have better options available to them.

But he hasn't looked out of place when he has featured for the Cherries, and he'll be hoping he can showcase his talent with a loan spell in the second-half of this year's campaign.

Simpson has only had one loan spell in his career to date, which was at AFC Totton back in 2015, so he'll be keen to make a good impression in senior football this season.

Con: Middlesbrough have competition for his signature. 

It has previously been reported by Sky Sports that both Derby County and Stoke City are also interested in signing Simpson on loan this month, so Middlesbrough will know that it's going to be a tough battle to strike a deal with the defender ahead of their Championship rivals.

One thing that they will be able to guarantee him over other clubs is regular game time to further his development, as Boro are currently shot on options in defence.

This could be a potential deal that goes down to the wire with Deadline Day fast approaching. Middlesbrough might need to look at alternative options in case Simpson decides to join a different club on loan.

Pro: He'll add much-needed depth to their defensive options. 

Middlesbrough desperately need strength in depth in their defensive options this season, as Jonathan Woodgate is having to deal with somewhat of an injury crisis at the moment.

Ryan Shotton and Daniel Ayala are just some of the players that are currently sidelined through injury, so if they were to sign Simpson on loan this month, he'd add much-needed depth to the Middlesbrough defence.

Woodgate will have to give the Bournemouth defender assurances of regular first team football at the Riverside this season, otherwise he might not be keen on the move.

Con: Are there more experienced options out there? 

Middlesbrough are believed to have previously targeted Ben Gibson, before turning their attentions to Simpson.

Simpson doesn't have much experience of senior football, which will surely be a concern for both Jonathan Woodgate and the Boro supporters.

The Championship can be a tough test for any young player that is sent out on loan, and you have to feel as though there are more experienced options available to Middlesbrough before the January transfer window closes.