Middlesbrough’s January transfer priority emerging but one player could still change that

Middlesbrough may target a defensive-minded midfielder in the upcoming January transfer window to resolve issues with defensive transitions. Manager Kim Hellberg has identified vulnerabilities after adjusting the midfield following Hayden Hackney's departure and the arrival of Sebastian Berhalter.

Connor Barron joined the club on loan from Rangers late in the summer to offer midfield cover, but he has yet to establish himself in the starting lineup. In the meantime, Hellberg has utilized center-back Adilson Malanda in midfield, though his long-term plan remains using Malanda in defense.