Middlesbrough FC transfer rumours: Reported target not for sale as Championship rivals close in on former Newcastle United man

Portsmouth say no offers have been made for goalkeeper Alex Bass.

Boro are still looking to strengthen in several key positions this summer but have only managed to bring in centre-back Grant Hall from QPR.

It’s been claimed the Teessiders are in the market for a new goalkeeper, with Portsmouth stopper Alex Bass a reported target.

Reported Boro target not for sale

Crystal Palace have also been credited with interest in the 22-year-old, yet Pompey assistant manager Joe Gallen says there haven’t been any firm bids for the keeper.

When asked if the club were looking to sell Bass, Gallen told our sister title The Portsmouth News: ‘No, we’re not at all.

He added: “There’s been talk but no bids or no talking about it between us and other clubs - so Bassy stays with us.

“I heard all the rumours back at that time, but there was never an official approach made.”

Defender reacts to League One move

Another player who was linked with Boro is former Tottenham centre-back Christian Maghoma – although there are doubts regarding Boro’s interest.

That’s because the 22-year-old completed a move to League One club Gillingham earlier this week on a free transfer.

Yet Gillingham’s website has claimed the club the Gills ‘ won the race from one particular Championship club and serious competition from League One’ to sign Maghoma.

QPR were also linked with the Congolese defender.

After completing the move, Maghoma said: “I know the size of the club and where it wants to go in the future and everyone in the building has been so welcoming.

"I just want to play; I love Football and have been playing since I was eight. I'm tough, I won't let people get past me easily and I love to talk and be a leader."

Brentford closing in on forward

Finally Boro’s Championship rivals Brentford have agreed a deal to sign striker Ivan Toney from Peterborough for around £10million.

Boro have been loosely linked with the former Newcastle frontman in the past, yet a hefty transfer fee would have priced them out of a deal.

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