Middlesbrough’s Marcus Tavernier is attracting interest from Manchester United, who have been monitoring the England under-20 international’s development at the Riverside Stadium.  

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Man United have had scouts watching Tavernier already this season, with the view to adding him to their under-23 squad at Old Trafford.

The 19-year-old has impressed for Middlesbrough and in England’s youth setup, with Gareth Southgate even casting his eye over the midfielder recently after injuries to England’s senior players.

At club level, he’s made 11 appearances across all competitions under Tony Pulis this season, returning three goals for the promotion-chasing Teessiders.

Two of those goals in the Championship have come in his last three appearances, with Tavernier netting in a 2-1 victory at Brentford and a 1-1 draw away to Preston North End.

Tavernier’s last appearance for Boro came in the heavy 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa, with Pulis hauling the youngster off shortly after the hour mark on a difficult afternoon.

He was then an unused substitute last time out as Boro battled for a point against Blackburn Rovers at the Riverside Stadium.

The Verdict  

Tavernier is a talent, there’s no doubt about that, and it’s little surprise to hear that he’s on the radar of a big Premier League club.

Whether Old Trafford is the best place for the player’s development is certainly up for debate, but arguably, being in and out of Pulis’ side isn’t helping either.

At 19, the midfielder should be looking for a regular run of first-team football.

Thoughts? Let us know!