Middlesbrough fell narrowly short of promotion this season, eventually losing in the play-off semi-finals against Aston Villa.

Ahead of the season, many pundits and spectators were tipping Boro to win the league or at least win automatic promotion, but they fell short of this target and will have to go again next year.

But this summer, they face a battle to hold onto key players Adama Traore and Ben Gibson.

If these two vital players depart, then Tony Pulis is going to need to be very shrewd in the transfer market to ensure that he brings in adequate replacements.

Boro also need to improve in other areas up and down the pitch so a busy summer of activity is expected at The Riverside Stadium.

Here are three realistic incoming players who could lift Boro to the next level and have them competing for automatic promotion.

Boro need full-backs to compete with Fabio and George Friend and £3.6m-rated Byram could be available this summer.

West Ham are willing to sell the 24-year-old for £3.5m after landing Ryan Fredericks and Byram has previously proven his class for Leeds United at Championship level.

Besic established himself as one of Middlesbrough's best midfielders while on loan last season.

His legs in midfield have added so much to the team and Pulis needs to prioritise a permanent deal for the Everton man.

Aston Villa star Adomah could be on the move given their financial woes and Boro are thought to be ready to swoop.

The 30-year-old is well known in the North East after helping Boro win promotion two years ago and his tally of 15 goals and five assists from the wing makes him a deadly threat at Championship level.