Having narrowly missed out on the play-offs last month, Middlesbrough will be aiming to go one better next season.

Yet in order to achieve success in the Championship, it is imperative that Boro get their recruitment spot on this summer as a failure to do so could end up in another year of mediocrity at the Riverside.

Although chairman Steve Gibson has still yet to appoint a replacement for Tony Pulis, regardless on who he picks, Boro simply have to bring in a player to fill the void left by Muhamed Besic.

A mainstay in the club's starting eleven over the past eighteen months, the Bosnian returned to Everton following the expiry of his loan spell in May.

With Besic not expected to make a permanent switch to Boro during the transfer window, here are THREE players who we think that they should target over the coming months...

Cameron McGeehan

One of Barnsley stand-out performers last season, McGeehan's incredible levels of consistency resulted in him being named in the PFA's League One Team of the Year.

Superb both on and off the ball, the 24-year-old would prove to a fantastic addition to Boro's squad as he clearly has all the skills needed to become a force in the second tier.

However, with Tykes boss Daniel Stendel wanting to keep his squad together ahead of their return to the Championship, the Teesside outfit may have to splash the cash in order to secure his services.

Philip Billing

Once tipped to be the next big thing for Huddersfield Town, it is fair to say that Philip Billing hasn't quite lived up to expectations at the John Smith's Stadium.

Yet at the age of 22, the midfielder still has plenty of time to reach his potential and therefore would be a good replacement for Besic who possesses similar qualities to him.

Although the Terriers will be reluctant to sell, it may be worth Boro launching an ambitious bid for the talented midfielder, especially given that he only has one year left on his existing deal (via Transfermarkt).

Mohamed Diame

A powerhouse of a central midfielder, Mohamed Diame would bring a wealth of experience to Boro's midfield if they can convince him to make the switch to Teesside.

Now a free agent after being released by Newcastle United earlier this month, the Senegalese international is sure to be subject of considerable interest this summer from a whole host of clubs.

Therefore, if Boro are looking at the possibility of bringing Diame in, they must act fast in order to avoid disappointment as he has all the attributes needed to transform the club's fortunes next season.