Neil Warnock considers move for Premier League defender as Aston Villa man is linked with Middlesbrough, Bristol City and Cardiff

Boro are still hopeful they can make a couple more signings this month, following the arrival of goalkeeper Jordan Archer, with another winger the priority.

The Teessiders are also looking at Premier League defenders they could sign on loan due to a lack of options at the back.

Paddy McNair and Dael Fry have started Boro’s last 13 league games in defence while Grant Hall is still recovering from a thigh injury he suffered in November.

Teenager Nathan Wood, 18, has impressed on his Championship debut against Nottingham Forest and at Brentford in the FA Cup but Boro have talked about sending the youngster out on loan.

Warnock has admitted he made enquiries about signing another defender on loan in the summer, reported to be Liverpool’s Rhys WIlliams, yet the top-flight club wanted assurances their player would receive regular game time.

Boro are therefore looking to sign someone who can play as a centre-back or a full-back to provide competition for places while allowing the team to switch to a back three.

According to Football Insider, Bristol City, Cardiff and Boro are in the hunt to sign Guilbert who has made just two appearances for Villa in the EFL Cup this season.

The 26-year-old, who made 25 Premier League appearances last season, predominantly plays as a right-back but can play across the back four.

It was reported that Guilbert turned down a move to Bournemouth during the last transfer window.

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