Middlesbrough FC transfer rumours: Nottingham Forest and Stoke join race for Newcastle United man plus Adam Clayton reports

Jacob Murphy scored nine goals and provided six assists in 39 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday last season

Middlesbrough are halfway through their pre-season training camp in Cornwell – yet the club’s lack of signings this summer remains a concern.

The Teessiders have been linked with several players over the last few weeks but have only brought in centre-back Grant Hall since the end of last season.

Manager Neil Warnock has said he wants to strengthen the spine of his squad, yet Boro are also in the market for some natural wingers and creative players ahead of the new campaign.

Murphy interest hots up

One name which has been mentioned is Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy, yet the 25-year-old appears to have plenty of suitors.

Magpies boss Steve Bruce said he’ll assess the situation in the next few weeks, after the wideman returned to Tyneside following an impressive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday last season.

Wednesday are said to be interested in re-signing Murphy, while SPL giants Rangers have also been credited with interest.

According to Football Insider, Stoke, Wednesday and Forest have all told Newcastle of their interest in Murphy on a season-long loan deal.

What’s happened to Yaya Sanogo?

It was reported earlier this week that former Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo was close to joining Boro and had visited the club’s Rockliffe training ground.

The 27-year-old is a free agent after his contract expired at French club Toulouse, yet it has been claimed he has other offers.

According to TeamTalk, Millwall, Preston and Barnsley have also been linked with Sanogo who could also stay in France, with Sochaux, Valenciennes, Nancy and Dijon all reportedly keen.

The report does say Boro are still leading the chase to sign forward though.

Adam Clayton linked with Birmingham move

Finally, Birmingham City are said to be in talks with former Middlesbrough midfielder Adam Clayton.

The 31-year-old wasn’t offered a new contract at Boro this summer and is now a free agent after six years at the Riverside.

According to Football Insider, discussions are underway over a potential move to Birmingham, who are now managed by former Boro boss Aitor Karanka.