Middlesbrough step up striker search amid Watford reports plus Rotherham United face battle to keep key man: Transfer rumours

Here are some of the latest Boro-related transfer rumours from around the web:

Watford striker linked

Boro’s search for a new striker continues, and a new name has been added to the list of reported targets.

According to The Athletic, the Teessiders have shown an interest in Watford forward Andre Gray – who is set to represent Jamaica at the CONCACAF Gold Cup from July 10.

Gray joined Watford from Burnley for a reported fee of £18million in 2017 but has struggled to become a first-team regular at Vicarage Road.

The 30-year-old has one year left on his Watford contract after scoring five goals in 30 Championship appearances last season.

Championship clubs tracking Rotherham man

Boro are also said to be one of several Championship clubs who are keeping tabs on Rotherham midfielder Matt Crooks.

The 27-year-old also has a year left on his contract but is clearly attracting interest following the Millers’ relegation to League One.

According to The Rotherham Advertiser, several Championship clubs, including Boro, Derby and Peterborough, are tracking the player but are yet to make a serious move.

The same report states that Ipswich have made an initial bid of around £400,000 for Crooks but that is way below Rotherham’s valuation.

Boro are also understood to be interested in Rotherham striker Michael Smith.

Cambridge boss on Paul Mullin

Finally, Cambridge boss Mark Bonner says the club presented a ‘really good offer’ to striker Paul Mullin.

The 26-year-old, who scored 31 league goals to help the U’s win promotion from League Two last season, has rejected a new deal at the Abbey Stadium amid interest from elsewhere.

Boro are one of several clubs who have been credited with interest in Mullin, while Charlton are said to be leading the race to sign him.

Bonner told Cambridge’s website: "We felt it was a really good offer from our side and the best we could offer.

"Regardless of where Paul ends up, he goes down in history for what he achieved for us last season and we wish him really well."

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