Chris Wilder will be hoping that he can continue building a squad at Middlesbrough that will be ready to challenge at the very top of the division once the new Championship campaign begins. 

Boro, who narrowly missed out on the play-offs last time out, entered much better form when the former Sheffield United boss arrived at the Riverside Stadium. 

In what has been a rather slow-moving summer transfer window thus far, Middlesbrough have welcomed two new faces to Teesside, with Northampton Town's Liam Roberts signing on a permanent deal, whilst Wolves have loaned Ryan Giles up to the north east club.

Whilst we wait for the new campaign to get underway, here, we take a look at Boro's best starting XI as things stand, something that could give an indication of where the priorities for Wilder lie...

 

 

With Joe Lumley departing and Roberts arriving, it would appear that the 27-year-old would be deemed first-choice as things stand, however, Boro could be looking to bolster their goalkeeping department further with another addition before the window shuts.

A back three of Anfernee Dijksteel, Dael Fry and Paddy McNair certainly impressed last season, and with no new additions, it could be the same three starting the new campaign.

Perhaps adding a progressive left-footed central defender could generate a more balanced and a more competitive backline for when the new season starts.

Despite attracting interest from some of the country's elite, Middlesbrough will be eager to keep hold of Isaiah Jones during the summer transfer window, with the exciting wing-back enjoying a productive campaign last time out. Djed Spence is also an option as things stand, however, his future almost definitely lies elsewhere.

With Giles coming in, there is expected to be good levels of competition for Wilder on the left flank next season, with the Wolves loanee perhaps just edging Marc Bola on a first glance.

Jonny Howson has signed fresh terms at the Riverside Stadium, and whilst that is once again a big positive, Riley McGree and Matt Crooks have the potential to reach new heights in Teesside next season.

Marcus Tavernier is another who is attracting interest from the higher level, however, given his importance in the team, Middlesborough will likely stand firm in the case of any bids.

As things stand, Duncan Watmore and Josh Coburn seem the likely candidates to lead the line, but if Middlesbrough-related rumours are anything to go by, there will be forward line additions.