Middlesbrough striker Ashley Fletcher is reportedly a loan target for Sheffield United.

According to a report from the Sun (print edition August 26th, page 61), Chris Wilder is lining up a move for the Boro striker as he looks to add a fifth forward to his side before the loan window closes at the end of the week.

The 22-year-old has played a bit-part for Tony Pulis at the Riverside so far this season, thanks to the excellent form of Britt Assombalonga and Martin Braithwaite who have propelled the Teeside club to an unbeaten start to the Championship campaign.

Having struggled to establish himself in the Boro first team since his move from West Ham in 2017, Sunderland was the temporary home for the striker in the second half of last season, scoring twice as they were relegated.

Fletcher has played just 38 minutes in the Championship this season having made four substitute appearances, including in the opening day draw with Millwall, where he had a hand in the 97th-minute equaliser.

A goal in the League Cup win on penalties over Notts County has been his only chance scored so far this season with a loan move likely to help him become more of a regular at first-team level.

The Verdict

This would be a good move for the player and the club.

Ashley Fletcher is having to play a bit-part in the Middlesbrough side at the moment with the recent form of Britt Assombalonga and Martin Braithwaite.

Fletcher is young and athletic and would be an excellent addition to Bramall Lane to compliment what they already have in their attacking arsenal.

Chris Wilder is keen on another striker and the loan window closing at the end of the week, the chance to sign the striker is ebbing away every minute that he delays.

It would be an astute bit of business, and yet another shrewd Wilder signing should it be completed.