Middlesbrough forward, Martin Braithwaite has emerged as a shock target for fellow Championship side, Swansea City ahead of the January transfer window, according to reputable journalist, Alan Nixon. 

Nixon revealed that a loan move is the most likely option for the Danish forward, who will be keen to have his long-term future resolved in the near future.

According to earlier reports from The Northern Echo, Braithwaite could be allowed to leave Middlesbrough in January, as Tony Pulis looks set to revamp the current playing squad.

The 27-year-old has only made 12 league starts this season but has been left out of the Boro squad in recent weeks, which has led to questions about his future being raised.

He has only netted three league goals this season in a disappointing return for the striker who has fallen down the pecking order in Tony Pulis' side behind Britt Assombalonga and Jordan Hugill.

Swansea are in need of additional firepower up-front, with Oliver McBurnie lacking in competition for a starting spot in the Swans squad, as Wilfried Bony is seemingly out of favour with Graham Potter.

It remains to be seen as to whether Swansea will make a formal offer for Braithwaite, but he certainly has the quality on his day to be playing at a higher level, but if he can rediscover that form with Swansea, then he could fire them into the top six by the end of this season.

The Verdict: 

Swansea's interest is certainly a surprise.

It's a huge risk for them to take on the hefty wages that Braithwaite is probably on, but if he can score goals, then it's a no brainer.

The Swans need someone to fire them into play-off contention, and Braithwaite has a point to prove in English football, having struggled at Middlesbrough for the majority of this season.

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