Middlesbrough needs to exert maximum effort to persuade one of their top summer targets to sign, despite Premier League attention.
Middlesbrough enters the 2024/25 season with aspirations for promotion, having narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season. Manager Michael Carrick recognizes the need for reinforcements, especially considering the potential departures of key players like Seny Dieng, Hayden Hackney, and Rav van den Berg.
With last season’s loanee Luke Ayling now secured on a permanent basis, strengthening the midfield has become a priority for Boro. However, their pursuit faces competition from newly-promoted Ipswich Town, who have joined the race for Nottingham Forest midfielder Lewis O’Brien.
O’Brien spent the previous season on loan at Middlesbrough but struggled with injuries, limiting his impact to 23 Championship appearances. Carrick is eager to secure O’Brien’s permanent return, particularly with the squad currently lacking depth in midfield. However, Alan Nixon reports via his Patreon that Ipswich’s interest in the midfielder complicates matters for Middlesbrough, as the lure of another shot at the Premier League may be enticing.
Securing O’Brien’s signature would significantly bolster Middlesbrough’s promotion prospects. Having already experienced success with the club last season, O’Brien could view Boro as the ideal platform to regain regular playing time. His versatility and energy make him a valuable asset for Carrick’s midfield, potentially playing a pivotal role in their promotion push.
However, if Middlesbrough fails to secure O’Brien, finding a player of similar quality capable of making an immediate impact could prove challenging for Carrick and his team.