Middlesbrough are battling to keep hold of promising striker Stephen Walker with Manchester United and Liverpool showing interest, according to The Northern Echo.

Walker's performances at youth level have earned plaudits on Teesside which has led to him catching the eye of the Premier League giants.

The 18-year-old scored seven goals in 16 appearance for Middlesbrough Under 18s during the first half of the season, including a hat-trick against Liverpool Under 18s.

The striker's goals helped Boro to the Premier League Cup final where they suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester City.

He has been on loan at MK Dons since January, but he is yet to establish himself in Paul Tisdale's starting line-up as he seeks to build experience at a senior level.

Walker is one of numerous talented young players in the club's ranks who have been linked with moves away. Marcus Tavernier, Nathan Wood and Bilal Brahimi have also been scouted by potential suitors from home and abroad.

In fact, Brahimi has also been watched by Liverpool with the Reds' scouts clearly keeping a close eye on Boro's academy production line.

The verdict

Middlesbrough's academy set-up is one of their greatest strengths at the moment following Tony Pulis' efforts to integrate his young stars.

It would be a blow to lose Walker alongside their other starlets, as there is real potential for Boro to build their future around them.

However, Walker is contracted to the club until 2023 which means Middlesbrough will be able to demand a considerable fee for his services. Whatever happens, Boro will soon feel the benefit of their flourishing youth system.