Middlesbrough FC news and transfer rumours: Striker deal hits snag after Bristol City talks over Britt Assomblaonga move

Assombalonga will see his Boro contract expire at the end of the season, while the Robins have been credited with interest in the striker for some time.

It had been claimed that City were lining up a bid of around £2million for the forward, yet, according to the Northern Echo, there have been issues over negotiating a deal.

After paying a record transfer fee of £15million for Assombalonga in 2017, Boro will be aware they are set to make a big loss on the striker.

There is still a chance the 28-year-old could sign a new deal at the Riverside, yet he’d have to take a wage cut – which would also be the case if he moved elsewhere before today’ 11pm deadline.

Boro boss Neil Warnock has said one or two players may leave the Riverside today, yet Assombalonga’s departure is only likely to be sanctioned if the Teessiders can find a replacement.

Bristol City striker Famara Diedhiou, who will also be out of contract in the summer, has been on Boro’s radar this month, yet the Robins are keen to keep the 28-year-old.

Boro have also been looking at attacking wide players who may be available, yet there is less pressure to make another addition after Yannick Bolasie’s arrival from Everton last week.

It’s also likely Boro will allow some of their younger players to leave on loan before the close of play today.

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