Chris Wilder has made it no secret that he would like to add a left-footed central defender to his Middlesbrough squad this summer. 

Subsequently, Boro had been linked with a move for Liverpool's Ben Davies, who spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan at Sheffield United.

Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City have now set their sights on the Reds defender, so here, we take a look at three Ben Davies alternatives that the Teesside club should consider...

Jacob Greaves 

One of the most exciting defenders in the Championship at present, Jacob Greaves would be a fantastic addition at Middlesbrough, with the 21-year-old consistently thriving at Hull City over the last couple of seasons.

Given the heightened ambitions at the MKM Stadium this summer, and how highly they regard the young defender, it is likely to be a difficult one to complete.

Boro have already made an approach for the young defender through an informal conversation, with Hull not keen to part company at this stage.

 

 

Jonathan Panzo 

Middlesbrough could look into the possibility of a loan deal for Nottingham Forest defender Jonathan Panzo this summer, with the 21-year-old perhaps in need of a temporary move to bridge the gap from where he is now to starring in the Premier League. 

A progressive kind of defender, both in his passing and in his ball-carrying abilities, Panzo is someone that could help Middlesbrough as they target a promotion push. 

A talented player in need of more regular minutes, it could be a perfect situation for all involved. 

Yoann Barbet 

Currently a free agent, former Queen Park Rangers defender Yoann Barbet could be an option that Wilder considers this summer. 

The 29-year-old proved to be a strong performer for the R's over the season, impressing with his high levels of intelligence and ball-playing capabilities. 

Someone who can thrive at the top end of the Championship, he is someone that would add value at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, all whilst filling a priority area.