The Teessiders have been left a man light at the back following Aden Flint’s move to Cardiff last week, and Woodgate may be looking for more cover ahead of the new Championship campaign. We’ve identified nine Premier League centre-backs who Boro could realistically sign on loan this summer.
5. Grant Hanley (Norwich)
Hanley is the club captain at Norwich but made just nine league appearances during the side's promotion-winning campaign. The 27-year-old has played regularly in the second tier for Blackburn and the Canaries. Photo: Alex Davidson
6. Ben Gibson (Burnley)
Possibly a long shot but Gibson made just one league appearance for Burnley last season. The 26-year-old would surely slot straight back into Boro's backline if he returns. Photo: Alex Livesey
7. Timothy Fosu-Mensah (Manchester United)
After signing on loan for Fulham last term, the defender's season was cut short after he suffered a knee injury in April. The powerful 21-year-old can play at centre-back or right-back. Photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos
8. Cameron Carter-Vickers (Tottenham)
The USA international, 21, has gained Championship experience on loan at Ipswich, Sheffield United and Swansea in the last two years. Carter-Vickers made 30 league appearances for the Swans last term. Photo: Stu Forster