According to the Northern Echo, Middlesbrough are still looking to add more fresh faces to their squad ahead of the 2017/18 Sky Bet Championship campaign.  

Garry Monk is reshaping the Boro squad ahead of his first campaign as manager, and has already been extremely active in the transfer window, with Britt Assombalonga’s £15m arrival standing out.

However, the 38-year-old is keen to add more fresh faces to his squad this summer, with a central defender and a winger on Boro’s radar.

Liverpool’s Sheyi Ojo is a winger that Monk is keen to take to the Riverside Stadium, but despite Boro’s interest, the 20-year-old is set to have a number of options, with so many clubs looking to sign him.

Monk is also interested in signing a central defender, and could be rushed to do so in the coming weeks, with Ben Gibson’s future well speculated already this summer.

West Bromwich Albion are one club interested in signing Gibson, but Boro have rejected their bids so far this summer, with the Teessiders keen to keep hold of the 24-year-old ahead of their return to the Championship.

It is not clear whether Gibson will still be at the Riverside later this summer, but should he depart, Monk’s need for defensive reinforcements will become greater.

Boro begin their Championship season on Saturday, when they visit Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Verdict

Garry Monk’s business in the transfer window so far has been impressive, with Boro assembling a squad that looks an absolute certainty for promotion next season.

However, Monk’s desire to add more depth to his squad is hardly surprising, with the 38-year-old desperate to help his club return to the Premier League.

Ojo would add some much needed competition in the wide areas, whilst a central defender will be a necessity if Gibson chooses an early return to the Premier League.

Boro fans… Let us know your thoughts!