Middlesbrough fans will be bitterly disappointed with how last season ended.

After starting the season as title favourites after a summer of heavy spending and the appointment of promising manager Garry Monk, big things were expected of the recently relegated side.

But Boro failed to threaten near the top at the start of the season and had to settle for a spot in the play-off zone by the end of the year.

Tony Pulis is now the manager and he is eyeing up a number of possible targets for this summer transfer window.

He needs to strengthen his side to get them back towards the top of the league and start competing for automatic promotion again.

After signing Bristol City's Aden Flint and Sunderland's Paddy McNair, Boro are likely to press ahead with other targets.

Here are three players who would definitely boost Middlesbrough's title credentials if they came in this summer.

If Boro can pull off the signing of Newcastle United winger Ritchie, they would have one of the best players in the Championship.

Middlesbrough need some more creativity out wide - especially if Adama Traore leaves - and Ritchie would certainly provide goals and assists from the flanks.

Pulis needs to prioritise a permanent move for Besic, who shone while on loan at The Riverside last season.

The 25-year-old is not wanted by Everton but he adds so much to Boro's midfield.

If Britt Assombalonga leaves, Middlesbrough definitely need a new striker to compete with Pat Bamford and Uruguay international Hernandez would be a great signing.

The 27-year-old hit eight in eight starts this season after recovering from a major injury, hit 20 league goals last time he was in the Championship and now he is fit, the former Hull City striker would be an exciting addition on a free.