Middlesbrough are prepared for another season in the Championship following their defeat in the play-off final.

Borough finished fifth in the table and earned a spot in the play-off final after their semi-final opponents were kicked out of the league after defeating Kim Hellberg’s team 2-1.

However, they were unable to capitalise on their second opportunity, losing 1-0 to Hull City thanks to an Oli McBurnie goal in stoppage time.

The Teesside club hasn’t competed in the top flight since 2017, but will be trying to break that streak in the coming season.

But first, the club has a demanding summer ahead of it, especially considering this will be Hellberg’s first preseason since taking over as head coach in November.

The Swede will be eager to strengthen his first-team squad in order to increase their chances of making the play-offs again, or even winning automatic promotion.

Middlesbrough considers Everton transfer.

Teamtalk has stated that Middlesbrough are interested in signing Everton’s Harrison Armstrong.

The two teams have already discussed a deal for Hayden Hackney this summer, but no agreement has been reached.

However, the 19-year-old might head in the opposite direction, with the Championship side interested in signing him.

The youngster joined Preston North End on loan last summer, making 17 games in the second tier before returning to Merseyside in January.

Armstrong appeared 13 times in the Premier League, starting six games, as David Moyes’ team ended 13th in the table.

Everton are said to be open to a loan move, but are not currently discussing a permanent deal.

However, their pursuit of Hackney could complicate matters, as an obvious valuation disparity now prevents a deal.

Middlesbrough are apparently asking for up to £25 million for the midfielder, despite the fact that he is in the final year of his contract and may depart as a free agent in 2027.

Everton will face competition from Crystal Palace, Fulham, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest in the fight for Hackney’s signing.

It’s likely that a deal for Armstrong may assist grease the wheels in their negotiations for Hackney, though the two transactions aren’t understood to be related at this time.

Hackney appeared 38 times for Borough in the Championship last season, scoring five goals and providing seven assists.

Harrison Armstrong’s interest could help speed up the Hayden Hackney transaction.

Armstrong did well in the Championship last year, but struggled to make the jump to the Premier League.

He is still only 19, so it’s understandable that he appeared out of his depth, but he might become an important player for Everton in the future.

However, Hackney is in high demand, and the Merseyside outfit may have to accept a move for Armstrong in the opposite direction in order to complete the deal.

Losing the midfielder would be a significant blow for Middlesbrough, but Armstrong has the potential to be a competent substitute for him, perhaps becoming a very valuable asset to the club in the future.