What Neil Warnock has told Steve Gibson about transfers as Middlesbrough wait on Patrick Roberts deal

Boro and their Championship rivals still have until October 16 to bring in players from other English clubs, following the end of the international window earlier this week.

Warnock has hinted he would ideally like to sign three or four more players to bolster his options, yet that appears unlikely due to financial circumstances.

With fans still not allowed to attend matches for the foreseeable future, clubs have been forced to reassess their transfer plans due to the reduced revenue streams.

As a result, It now looks like Boro are targeting loan signings from Premier League clubs rather than making permanent transfers.

Warnock said on Saturday that Manchester City playmaker Patrick Roberts is close to returning to the Riverside on loan, yet no announcement has been made.

Despite some concerns among supporters, it's understood the deal will still be completed and the club are just waiting for paperwork to be completed.

Boro may also be able to bring in another player on loan before the deadline, most likely another centre-back due to a lack of options in that area.

Warnock spoke to TalkSport on Thursday morning and was asked about his aspirations at Boro.

He said: "When I first came in towards the end of last season I told Steve, 'look, let's just get to safety first. Then we'll see about beyond that and reaching my 1,500 games.

"I agreed to stay because I thought four or five good players we'd have a real good chance.

"But with finances as they are because of what's happening with Covid, I don't think any managers can demand this, that and the other anymore. We've got to be more responsible than that.

"All I've said to Steve is that we'll get a competitive team and I won't be signing players on stupid money because with no fans coming in it's just money going out with little coming in.

"I think the fans have been responsible and they've listened to what we've said. We have signed three lads (plus Marcus Bettinelli on loan).

"But we won't be going silly now and we'll make do with what we've got."

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Hi, our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club every single day, home and away, 365 days a year.

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

You'll find all the details at www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/subscriptions/sports

Your support is much appreciated.

Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor