Transfer news: Middlesbrough set to hold contract talks as Neil Warnock eyes Premier League winger

The 30-year-old wideman signed a one-year extension with Boro in August but is one of three players at the club, along with Britt Assombalonga and Ashley Fletcher, who will see their deals expire this summer.

Manager Neil Warnock is keen to bolster his attacking options in the January transfer window and is hopeful the club can sign another winger on loan.

It could be argued the form of Johnson and Marcus Tavernier, as well as Marcus Browne’s return from injury, means there is less pressure on Boro to make another attacking signing.

Yet Warnock remains hopeful he can strengthen his squad this month, especially with his side competing for a play-off place.

“I’d still like a good wideman but I don’t think anyone could get more crosses in than Marvin,” said Warnock after Boro’s 3-1 win at Wycombe. “I thought he was outstanding today.

“We will look at his contract as well because he deserves talking to but we’ve not had a chance, we’ve had that many games but he deserves a look in.”

Warnock deployed Browne, who has just recovered from a hamstring injury, in the No 10 position against Wycombe, even though the 23-year-old was used as a winger when playing for Oxford on loan last season.

“I couldn’t get him in anywhere else,” said Warnock when asked about Browne. “

"Oxford told me to play him wide left but I’m not sure he’d pick up the full-backs when they bomb on. I thought it was an opportunity today, rather than play a midfield player in there, to try and give him more freedom.

“One or two people didn’t agree with me but when you’ve scored and won you can say I was right.”

Boro did try to sign Everton wideman Yannick Bolasie on loan in October but the deal wasn’t completed in time.

Warnock said a couple of weeks ago the 31-year-old has remained on the Teessiders’ radar, yet Boro are also assessing other Premier League players who may be available on loan.

The Teessiders were tracking a player from overseas but are unlikely to pursue that deal until the summer.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Middlesbrough coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor