Boro fans may feel they are well stocked in central midfield, yet the departure of Adam Clayton has left them a man lighter in the middle of the park. Here are nine midfielders who are currently available on free transfers – scroll down and flick through our gallery to see them:
1. Jackson Irvine
The Australian international did play as a striker earlier in his career but has operated in a deep-lying midfield role for Hull and for his national team in recent years. The 27-year-old has a decent range of passing and was missed when he decided not to play for the Tigers at the end of last season when his contract expired. Photo: Getty Images
2. Andy King
A former Premier League title winner with Leicester, King has always been on the fringes at the King Power Stadium. In the second half of last season, the 31-year-old was loaned out to Huddersfield and made 14 appearances as the Terriers stayed in the Championship. Photo: Michael Regan
3. Korey Smith
A player who showed his class when Bristol City beat Boro 3-1 at the Riverside a month ago. The 29-year-old is tidy in possession and will surely have plenty of suitors after six years at Ashton Gate. Photo: Harry Trump
4. Markus Henriksen
The Norwegian international, 28, also played for Bristol City last season after joining the Robins on loan from Hull. Despite his lack of game time, former City boss Lee Johnson described Henriksen as an 'ultimate professional.' Photo: Harry Trump