Middlesbrough FC transfer rumours: Boro, Stoke and Derby linked with centre-back plus Leeds striker latest

The 23-year-old defender has made just three Premier League appearances this campaign after breaking into the Cherries’ first team at the end of last season.

According to Sky Sports, Stoke City and Derby County are also interested in signing Simpson on loan, with Bournemouth expected to make a decision this week.

Simpson came through Bournemouth’s academy and has represented England at under-21 level.

Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate is keen to sign another central defender in January following injury setbacks for Ryan Shotton, Daniel Ayala, George Friend and Dael Fry.

Woodgate is hopeful the Teessiders will make one or two more signings before the end of the month.

Leeds looking elsewhere despite Assombalonga links

Following Tuesday’s draw with Birmingham, Woodgate also said he hadn’t been made aware of any bids for Boro players.

It came after Leeds United had been linked with a shock move for Britt Assombalonga, with the Daily Mirror claiming Marcelo Bielsa’s side wanted a replacement for Eddie Nketiah who returned to parent club Arsenal.

Local reports have since claimed that while Leeds may have taken a look at Assombalonga, the Boro frontman isn’t at the top of their list.

According to Sky Sports, the Whites have seen a third loan-to-buy bid rejected by Southampton for striker Che Adams.

It’s been claimed the bid included a £20million permanent transfer in the summer if Leeds are promoted.