Breaking: Middlesbrough out of race to sign ‘top target’ striker after price tag reveal

Middlesbrough have effectively been ruled out of the race to sign a striker they’re linked with in January after his asking price has been revealed.

Given that many people predicted the team to win promotion this season, Michael Carrick has presided over a somewhat disappointing campaign on Teesside.

Rather, Boro rallied to finish the season in eighth place, four points out of the playoffs, following a stretch of seven league games without a win to begin the campaign.

Boro’s final-day performance gave them hope for the upcoming campaign as well, as supporters witnessed their team finish in grand fashion with a 3-1 victory over Watford.

Moving forward, the focus will be on the summer, when Carrick and the board will need to collaborate in order to determine transfer targets.

Hearts set fee for Middlesbrough target Lawrence Shankland

One player that is now unlikely to make the move to The Riverside is Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland.

The 28-year-old was being linked to Middlesbrough in January, and the fact that he was getting close to the end of his contract gave them hope that they could work out a low-cost agreement.

Hearts remained steadfast in January and sought £5 million for his services, notwithstanding his contract status.

With a third-place finish in the Scottish Premier League, Hearts have guaranteed themselves a spot in Europe for the upcoming season. This has improved their financial situation, so they are unlikely to give up on the £5 million they had requested a few months ago.

This is bad news for Boro, since they won’t be spending that kind of money on just one player this summer.

Who is Middlesborough target Shankland?

Scotland international Shankland, who has nine caps, has played virtually his whole career at home.

The lone exception to this was a season in which, according to Transfermarkt, he scored five league goals and provided four assists for the Belgian team Beerschot V.A. in the 2021/22 campaign.

The center-forward has been playing really well this season, putting up eight assists and scoring 28 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.

This summer seems like the ideal time for the Hearts captain to go south of the border, with his contract expiring and the player at the height of his abilities.

Nathaniel Atkinson, Shankland’s teammate, was extremely supportive of his captain when Shankland scored a penalty against Hibernian despite being pelted with numerous objects.

“I believe that [Shankland] took a bite out of a pie following his goal.” He entered at the half and mentioned that the match was a little intense.

“He is a top-tier athlete, and nothing can deter him.”

Unfortunately, Boro could have to forget about Shankland come summertime and go elsewhere for a target unless Hearts reduce their asking price.