Midfielder Marcus Tavernier is set to sign a new long-term contract with Middlesbrough, a report from TeamTalk has claimed.

A graduate of 'Boro's academy, Tavernier has so far made 61 appearances in all competitions for the Championship side since his senior debut in 2017, scoring eight goals and providing a further eight assists in that time.

It seems that Tavernier's performances have already caught the eye during the early part of his career at 'Boro, with Premier League trio Manchester United, Aston Villa and Watford both previously credited with an interest in the left-sided midfielder.

There are currently 18 months remaining on Tavernier's current deal with Middlesbrough, securing his future at the Riverside Stadium until the end of next season.

According to the latest reports however, that could soon be set to change, with the 20-year-old expected to agree a new long-term contract with the club sooner rather than later.

Middlesbrough are currently 17th in the Championship standings, 11 points adrift of the play-off places, and are also 11 points clear of the relegation zone, with Tavernier having featured in 23 of their 29 league games this season.

The Verdict

This would be a very good piece of business for England.

Tavernier has started to grow into his role as a regular feature for Middlesbrough this season, so completing a new contract for the midfielder should secure them the services of a talented player for years to come.

Indeed, given the interest he has attracted recently, his current contract situation may well have put 'Boro under pressure should any offers come in for him either in the summer or this time next year, a situation that ought to be avoided should this new deal be agreed.

This therefore looks to be something of a statement of intent for Middlesbrough given that interest from elsewhere, and it will be interesting to see just what Tavernier can do for the club in the years to come.