Middlesbrough handed transfer concern over ‘raw’ star, Preston rumours put to bed

Middlesbrough managed to pick up a point over the weekend thanks to Chuba Akpom’s leveller against Bristol City.

Boro are starting to look more solid, now two games without a defeat and with four points from their last two outings. Michael Carrick still has plenty of work to do, though, and we should get a better idea of his influence once the honeymoon period subsides.

Boro have two more games to squeeze in before the World Cup break, facing Blackpool on Tuesday night and Norwich City on the weekend, but in the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news surrounding the Teessiders and their Championship rivals.

Jones exit links

Middlesbrough star Isiah Jones is being linked with a move to West Ham ahead of the January transfer window. Transfer expert Pete O’Rourke has said: “He is another player who has really impressed in the Championship and West Ham have had a lot of success signing players from the Championship and making the step up to the Premier League. Isaiah Jones is still a very raw player, but he has real exciting potential and is lightning-quick. He has shown in the Championship that he can score goals and provide goals.” (GiveMeSport)

Dack latest

Sunderland will not have a problem meeting Blackburn Rovers’ asking price for Bradley Dack, according to reports. The Black Cats have been linked with a move for Dack, who has been a mainstay for Rovers over recent years. It’s claimed Sunderland should have the funds to wrap up a deal should they go for it. (Alan Nixon)

Burnley problem

Burnley loan starlet Bailey Harwood-Bellis is said to be attracting attention. The youngster has impressed so far during his loan a Turf Moor from Manchester City. But it’s claimed the likes of Leicester City and Wolves are considering making a move. (Alan Nixon)

Fer links

Sheffield United are said to be monitoring former Swansea City midfielder Leroy Fer. According to reports, the Blades are scouting the Alanyaspor star ahead of the winter window. It’s hoped the 32-year-old can provide steady cover for Sander Berge in the heart of midfield. (Alan Nixon)

Erwin rumours put to bed

Preston won’t be signing Scottish frontman Lee Erwin after all. The Lancashire club were linked with a move for Erwin, who scored 21 goals in 35 games for Finnish side FC Haka. But Erwin has now joined Lebanese side Al Ahed.

Hall chase

Leeds United are said to be favourites in the race to sign Birmingham City star George Hall. A number of Premier League sides are said to be interested in the Blues wide man, but it’s claimed the Whites are at the front of the queue ahead of the January window. (The Sun)

Nelson eyed

Derby County are said to be lining up a January deal for Cardiff City defender Curtis Nelson. Nelson has struggled to build a partnership with the impressive Cedric Kipre at the heart of the Bluebirds’ defence, with Perry NG often playing in his place. Derby are now looking to offer Nelson a fresh start. (Alan Nixon)

Bilic wants more

Watford boss Slaven Bilic says he will be adding to his squad in the January window. He has said: “One thing about this club is we have a clear ambition, and what we want to do. It’s not easy and it requires good players, it’s as simple as that. Then you have the question of who, how much money, blah blah blah. But definitely what I have been told is that we are going to try to get quality players. Not too many because we don’t need too many, but one or two players, definitely.”