Middlesbrough join race for in-demand 18-goal striker, Cardiff City man eyed by divisional rivals

Neil Warnock has been buoyed by in-form forward Duncan Watmore signing a new deal, despite reports suggesting he was offered better terms elsewhere.

The former Sunderland forward was only on a short-term deal with the Teessiders and had reported interest from the likes of West Brom, Stoke City and Watford before opting to stay at the Riverside, signing a two and a half year deal.

Boro will look to press out in the transfer window, as Warnock looks to add more depth and quality to his side ahead of a play-off push, and they’ve been linked with a giant striker as they seek more firepower.

Cup glory is on the immediate agenda this weekend when they travel to take on Brentford in the third round of the FA Cup.

Why Duncan Watmore turned down other offers to stay at Middlesbrough

Boro’s squad has been rocked by Covid, like a few other Championship teams. Derby County may be forced to field a full team of U18s after their training ground was shut.

Here's our round-up of all the latest Championship news, and the January transfer window continues to heat up – with a number of strikers on the move:

Middlesbrough are said to have joined Sheffield Wednesday, Rotherham United and Derby County in the race to sign ex-Blackpool striker Armand Gnanuillet. He scored 18 goals for the Tangerines last season. (Football Insider)

Watford have received a double boost ahead of their eagerly-anticipated FA Cup tie against Man Utd, with star man Joao Pedro and Craig Cathcart both returning to training following hamstring injuries. (Club website)

Nottingham Forest have been tipped to rival a number of clubs for Benfica midfielder Filip Krovinovic. The Croatian midfielder, currently on loan at West Brom, could be allowed to move elsewhere to get more game time. (Sport Witness)

Barnsley have bolstered their attacking unit with the signing of striker Carlton Morris from Norwich City. The 25-year-old made just one appearance for his former club during his seven years on the books. (BBC Sport)

Following reports that Aston Villa could striker Keinan Davis out on loan this month, Swansea City and Bournemouth are the latest sides to be linked with the 22-year-old talent. (The Independent)

Sheffield Wednesday are rumoured to be eyeing a loan move for Cardiff City defender Gregg Cunningham. The ex-Man City and Preston North End has been capped four times for the Republic of Ireland. (Football Insider)

Reports from Poland have linked Manchester City with a shock move for Derby County winger Kamil Jozwiak. The 22-year-old has been backed by a City scout to thrive in the Premier League. (Sport Witness)

Barnsley, Luton Town and Brentford have all been credited with an interest in ex-Aston Villa winger Andre Green. He's currently a free agent, having left the Villains last summer upon the expiry of his contract. (The Athletic)

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Middlesbrough coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.