Middlesbrough were big spenders in the summer but it hasn’t paid off with Garry Monk’s men not even in the play-offs as we approach the halfway stage.

The pressure is building on the manager because he really should be doing better with the squad he has at his disposal.

Another issue has been the summer signings made by Monk. Whilst Britt Assombalonga has hit the ground running, the likes of Marvin Johnson and Ryan Shotton among others haven’t made an impact.

The January window gives Monk another chance to add to his squad, although he will have to focus on bringing in real quality, hoping that it will aid a play-off push at the minimum.

Here are five players that he should look to bring to Teesside…

Calum Chambers

The Arsenal man enjoyed a reasonable loan spell with Boro last year but is nowhere near the Arsenal team.

Whilst he has featured in the Europa League, Arsene Wenger is sure to take is more seriously after Christmas given a Champions League place is up for grabs.

Therefore, Chambers won’t have much to do and could form a very strong partnership with Ben Gibson once again at the heart of Monk’s defence.

Aden Flint

Alternatively, they could go for Aden Flint, one of the standout defenders in the league.

Fans may not think it’s realistic because of Bristol City’s position, however money talks.

Boro pay a lot more than the Robins and it would have to tempt Flint who could push for a move.

Marcus Maddison

If Monk is looking for someone from the lower leagues to step up, then Maddison is the man.

He has excelled for Peterborough for a few years now and is ready for the Championship.

The attacking midfielder would bring a creativity and imagination that is a lacking from Boro’s play.

Charlie Taylor

Garry Monk worked with Taylor at Leeds last year and will appreciate how good he is.

The left-back is solid defensively and very good going forward and proved with the Yorkshire club that he is one of the best options outside the top flight.

Since getting a move to Burnley it hasn’t worked, so he would relish the chance to play regularly under a manager who knows him well.

Tom Cairney

Boro are clearly ready to back their manager after the summer spree, so can we rule out more big-money signings in January?

Despite all the additions, they lack a quality number ten, which Cairney is.

It would take mega-money to prise him from Craven Cottage, but he would make a massive difference to Monk’s side.

Thoughts, Boro fans? Let us know in the comments below.