Middlesbrough are battling to finish in the play-off places on what could be a dramatic final day in the Championship.

However, even if Chris Wilder's men fall short, there will still be an optimism about what the future can hold under the former Sheffield United chief, who has done a fine job since his appointment.

But, he will need to be backed in the summer to reshape the squad, and it appears work is going on behind the scenes on that front, after Boro were linked with a move for Mainz midfielder Jean-Paul Boetius, along with Norwich City and Watford.

The 28-year-old is out of contract in the summer and here we look at THREE reasons why Boro must do all they can to land the player...

He has top level experience

This would be a signing that can improve the XI immediately, as Boetius would arrive with real pedigree.

He has made over 100 appearances in the Dutch top-flight for Feyenoord, and he's closing on that number for Mainz, who play in the Bundesliga.

So, Wilder would be getting a seasoned professional who has done a lot in the game, meaning he should slot in effortlessly.

He would bring creativity to the team

Scoring goals has been a problem for Boro in recent weeks, although they can't put all the blame on the strikers.

There had been a reliance on Isaiah Jones to create chances and whilst Riley McGree's introduction to the team has eased that burden somewhat, they still need more creativity.

Boetius can beat his man, looks to drive forward and would bring some more unpredictability to the side.

He is a bargain

Finally, Wilder will expect to be backed in the summer but he isn't going to have plenty of funds available, so it's about using what he has wisely.

With that in mind, the prospect of bringing in Boetius on a free will appeal and it could turn out to be a bargain. Furthermore, any funds that are available could be used to strengthen other areas of the squad.