Middlesbrough FC transfer rumours: Blackburn remain interested in Aynsley Pears, reported target close to West Brom exit plus latest on Rangers playmaker

With this summer’s window set to run until the start of October, players are continuously being linked with moves to and from the Riverside.

Here’s some of the latest gossip.

Keeper linked with move away

The signing of Bettinelli on a season-long loan deal from Fulham raised questions about the futures of Boro’s other goalkeepers.

"They have to fight for their place,” said Warnock when asked about Aynsley Pears and Dejan Stojanovic, who were rotated between the sticks last season.

“Marcus is an excellent keeper and the gloves are in his hands at the moment and it’s hard to see him being displaced.”

Pears, 22, has been linked with a move to Blackburn this summer, and according to The Sun’s Alan Nixon, Rovers have bid 200k for stopper.

Boro are reportedly holding out for a higher offer.

Striker interest fades

At the other end of the pitch, Warnock said last week he wants to sign two more strikers to compete with Ashley Fletcher and Britt Assombalonga.

Boro were in talks with former Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo but the deal fell through due to concerns over his fitness.

Another player who has been linked with a move to Teesside is West Brom striker Kenneth Zohore, yet recent reports have claimed the forward is holding talks with Sheffield Wednesday.

According to the Daily Mail, the 26-year-old had interest from Italy and Turkey also but is open to joining Wednesday on loan if terms can be agreed.

Jordan Jones latest

Boro also want to sign another playmaker before the end of the window and have been credited with interest in former academy graduate Jordan Jones.

The 25-year-old appears to be surplus to requirements at Ibrox, yet Rangers boss Steven Gerrard says he will welcome the player back to training following his time away with Northern Ireland.

“Jordan Jones has returned to us with a small quad problem,” said Gerrard.

“That’ll be days rather than weeks, we’re hoping to have JJ back in full training on Tuesday or Wednesday.”

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