Middlesbrough are about to enter a crucial January transfer window, and we’ve recommended three moves that could help Boro achieve promotion.
As the January transfer window opens, Middlesbrough is solidly in the promotion race.
Middlesbrough are second in the Championship table at the midway stage of the 2025/26 season. They are eight points behind leaders Coventry City, but five ahead of third-placed Ipswich Town.
Boro have handled a turbulent management change admirably, and Kim Hellberg has taken to English football brilliantly. They’re playing some terrific offensive football, and the Teesside crowd is fully on board.
Despite this, there is a growing sense that January will be a critical period for their season. Hellberg hopes to make his own signings as Boro hunt for players who can help them win the promotion fight.
Here are three steps Middlesbrough may take in January to improve their chances of playing in the Premier League.
New attacker signed
As previously said, Middlesbrough has played some impressive attacking football under Hellberg. They scored 11 goals in his first four games in charge.
However, things have dried up a bit, with two blanks in the last two games. Tommy Conway and David Strelec have the striker positions locked down, and Morgan Whittaker has been a standout on the right, but another wide man to operate on the left could be the difference.
Some added talent to provide cover and competition for players like Riley McGree, Kaly Sene, Sontje Hansen, and Micah Hamilton would be beneficial. Expect Boro to prioritize this area.
Hayden Hackney bids rejected
Middlesbrough did well to hold off interest in Hayden Hackney over the summer. The midfielder was largely expected to move on, but when Ipswich Town appeared as a potential destination, he turned them down.
His prominent role in Boro’s victory suggests that January interest is not out of the question. It has been stated that it would require a large bid to let him go under such circumstances, and they must stand by that.
Hackney’s transfer fate might mean the difference between promotion success and misery.
Games Goals Assists 24 3 6
Middlesbrough fringe players moved on.
Last but not least, with a handful of signings planned, Middlesbrough must send players on. Not only will it keep the books balanced, but it will also streamline Hellberg’s team, allowing him to work with a smaller group during the promotion drive.
Seny Dieng is widely likely to move on, with Sol Brynn taking over as goalkeeper. Under Hellberg, Sam Silvera has struggled to get opportunities, and Manchester City may recall Sverre Nypan.
Furthermore, a new attacking acquisition may open the door for Micah Hamilton to go out on loan.
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