The January window is always a crucial period for clubs and Middlesbrough are one side who will welcome the chance to bring in new players.

Tony Pulis' side have struggled in recent weeks and fans are growing increasingly unhappy with both performances and results.

It seems clear to many that the team are lacking quality in midfield and the final third and Pulis will look to address that in the New Year.

Several new signings are expected and the Northern Echo report that Jason Puncheon is a player the manager wants.

The 32-year-old has worked with Pulis at Crystal Palace and should be available as he has barely featured for the Eagles this season.

Here we look at THREE reasons why Boro need to go all-out to bring the midfielder to the Riverside...

Having worked with Puncheon at Palace, the Boro boss knows all about the player and what he can add to his current squad.

As well as that, he will know the character of the player and the influence he can have on the dressing room.

After a frustrating summer, Pulis needs backing and the board need to deliver the players he wants.

Another positive to signing Puncheon is the experience he will bring.

He has spent the majority of his career in the top-flight so he should be able to cope with the pressure of going for promotion in the Championship.

Having someone like that towards the end of the campaign when it does get tough can be invaluable.

Finally, you'd have to say the former Southampton man would improve the current squad.

The criticism of Boro is clear and probably fair - they don't play enough football and don't create enough chances.

Signing a technically-gifted player like Puncheon will go some way to solving those issues.