With less money to spend due to the coronavirus pandemic, negotiations have become harder when attempting to bring in new players ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
Here, we take a closer look at some of the deals which have caught the eye in the second tier so far this summer, and how some of Middlesbrough’s rivals are shaping-up:
9. Chey Dunkley (Wigan to Sheffield Wednesday, undisclosed fee)
After Wigan's 12-point penalty and relegation from the Championship, Dunkley was one of several players who left the DW Stadium. Despite saying he had interest from other clubs, the 28-year-old joined Sheffield Wednesday, who will start on -12 points for the 2020/21 season after breaking financial fair play rules. “I'm over the moon to be at Sheff Wed. It's a massive club, there's a vision there and I believe in it and I think we'll do well this season," he said. Photo: Getty Images
10. Kieran Sadlier (Doncaster to Rotherham, free transfer)
The versatile forward, 25, was Doncaster's top scorer last season after netting 11 goals and providing six assists in League One. He will now look to make the step up to the Championship after signing for newly-promoted Rotherham. Millers boss Paul Warne said: "He can play with both feet, as a 10 and on either wing. He's at a good age and a good kid." Photo: Laurence Griffiths
11. Luke Amos (Tottenham to QPR, undisclosed fee)
Another player who Boro were tracking, yet the 23-year-old midfielder always seemed likely to sign for QPR following a loan spell at the club last season. Amos was highly rated at Spurs but wasn't able to break into the first team following a serious knee injury. Photo: Justin Setterfield