Every Confirmed Championship Free Agent Middlesbrough Could Sign as Retained List Deadline Hits
The deadline for Championship clubs who didn’t make the play-offs to submit their retained lists to the EFL passed today (Saturday, May 17), and already a number of clubs – including Middlesbrough – have made theirs public.
Among the most notable updates for Boro fans was confirmation that defender Anfernee Dijksteel will leave the club this summer when his contract expires. Dijksteel, who made over 100 appearances for Boro since joining in 2019, struggled with injuries this past season and fell down the pecking order under Michael Carrick.
With his exit confirmed, and Boro expected to be active in the summer market, the pool of free agents now offers several interesting options. While clubs are only obligated to submit lists to the EFL by the deadline — and may delay public announcements — a growing number have already confirmed departures.
Here’s a look at Championship players who have been officially released and could be of interest to Middlesbrough
Strikers
Emil Riis Jakobsen (Preston North End)
The powerful Danish forward is a proven Championship goalscorer, and though his form dipped due to injury, he ended the season strongly. At 26, he could offer Boro both experience and a physical presence up top.
Lukas Jutkiewicz (Birmingham City)
The veteran target man, once a Boro player himself, is on the lookout for a new club. While his best years are behind him, he still offers aerial threat and experience off the bench.
Midfielders
Joe Allen (Swansea City)
The former Wales international is leaving Swansea and brings Premier League and international experience. At 35, he wouldn’t be a long-term solution but could add depth and leadership to a young midfield.
Massimo Luongo (Ipswich Town)
An underrated engine in midfield, Luongo played a key role in Ipswich’s campaign. If Boro want grit and ball-winning ability, he could be a useful option – though competition for his signature may be strong.
Sean Morrison (Rotherham United)
A commanding centre-half with experience and leadership, Morrison could serve as reliable depth, particularly if Boro are looking to bolster their backline with experienced heads.
Bradley Johnson (MK Dons – formerly of Blackburn, released last season
Though technically dropped to League One, his Championship experience could still appeal to clubs like Boro seeking veteran utility players.
Goalkeepers
David Stockdale (Sheffield Wednesday)
At 39, Stockdale is a short-term option, but with backup goalkeeping spots often needing experienced heads, he might be worth a look.
With the retained list deadline now behind us, more names will continue to emerge in the coming days and weeks as clubs finalise their summer plans. Middlesbrough are expected to target both permanent and loan signings, but the free agent market will undoubtedly play a key role in building a squad capable of pushing for promotion next season.
Stay tuned to Teesside Live for all the latest Middlesbrough transfer updates as the summer window begins to take shape.
Read more on;https://www.sportupdates.co.uk

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