Still, a number of loan deals, free transfers and low-cost moves have gone through this month, with the necessity to strengthen squads all the great in an injury-hit 2020/21 campaign. Here's a look at 17 deals, including Middlesbrough, that could still go through before Monday's transfer deadline:
13. Ryan Porteous - Millwall to Hibs
On the brink of breaking into the Scotland team, Porteous' value is only going to continuing rising in the short term. Millwall are keen on a move this month, and the player's manager has hinted that a deal could potentially go through. Photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos
14. Famara Diedhiou - Bristol City to Middlesbrough
It's a long shot, but Middlesbrough's name is still being mentioned frequently in relation to the Senegal international. He'll most likely leave Ashton Gate on a cut-price deal this month, but could well opt for a more lucrative move abroad. Photo: Michael Steele
15. Jimmy Dunne - Burnley to Preston
Preston are looking for some cover in the centre-half position, and a loan move for the promising Clarets defender could be a shrewd bit of business. Burnley boss Sean Dyche hasn't ruled out a deal happening before the deadline. Photo: Alex Pantling
16. Kyle Dempsey - Gillingham to Preston/Luton/Barnsley
Another League One ace in high demand, there's plenty of sides interested in the 25-year-old midfielder. Should Barnsley lose star man Alex Mowatt, then they could well launch a move for the ex-Huddersfield Town starlet. Photo: Dan Mullan