Middlesbrough news and transfer rumours: Ex-Everton striker open to West Brom or Championship move plus winger linked

The 30-year-old frontman has been a free agent since his Everton contract expired in the summer, while second-tier clubs, including Middlesbrough, were credited with interest in the forward last year.

Niasse has also been linked with Premier League strugglers West Brom who have recently appointed the striker’s former manager Sam Allardyce.

When asked about the speculation while appearing as a guest on The Beautiful Game Podcast, Niasse said: "Big Sam is a guy I worked with and had a good relationship with when I was at Everton.

“Right now the only thing on my mind, if I get to a team in England, is the opportunity to get on the pitch and do what I’ve been missing all this time.

“I know Big Sam will have a good relationship and knows how I am.

“When it comes to the teams in England, even in the Championship, I’m thinking about it because the challenge will be there and could be interesting.”

Teenage winger linked

With Boro boss Neil Warnock looking to bolster his attacking options this month, Boro have also been linked with Rochdale teenager Kwadwo Baah.

It’s been claimed the 17-year-old is attracting interest from Bundesliga, Championship and Scottish Premiership clubs this month.

Baah has made seven league appearances for Rochdale this season and scored his first senior goal for the club against Wigan last month.

Head coach reveals why he signed Stojanovic

Finally, head coach of FC St. Pauli, Timo Schultz, has explained why he wanted to sign Boro goalkeeper Dejan Stojanovic on loan.

The 27-year-old stopper, who joined Boro last January, completed his move to the 2. Bundesliga side on Tuesday in a bid to gain more first-team action.

Schultz told the club’s website: “Dejan has been in similar situations several times in his career as we are currently.

"It was also important to me that our newcomers don't need a long time to settle. Of course, it helps that Dejan, as an Austrian, can communicate directly with everyone.”

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