Middlesbrough are still looking to improve their midfield options ahead of the upcoming Championship season, with Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny a potential target.

The Northern Ireland international has emerged as a potential target for Borough this summer, although the most recent update from journalist Alan Nixon suggests a deal is far from certain.

Middlesbrough are negotiating the asking price, while Devenny has other possibilities, according to Nixon’s Patreon.

The 22-year-old’s position should be monitored as Kim Hellberg’s team seeks to complete a roster capable of launching another promotion campaign.

Middlesbrough is still arguing with Crystal Palace about Justin Devenny’s fee.

According to Nixon, Middlesbrough is still interested in Devenny, but they face competition for his signature, while negotiations over his valuation continue.

Devenny has been with Palace since arriving from Airdrieonians in 2023, making over 50 senior appearances for the Premier League team. He has also established himself globally, particularly in Northern Ireland.

The midfielder has progressed steadily at Selhurst Park, having won the FA Cup, Community Shield, and UEFA Conference League with the Palace.

However, regular first-team football has proven tough to achieve, sparking talk of a departure this summer.

Middlesbrough is believed to have inquired about Devenny earlier in the window. Nixon’s most recent statement shows that Borough is still participating, but their willingness to accept Palace demands may determine whether the move proceeds.

The stated fee is significant, with Nixon’s previous claims indicating Middlesbrough might pay up to £7 million for the versatile midfielder.

What Justin Devenny can give Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough’s interest makes sense given Hellberg’s midfield requirements.

The team lost Hayden Hackney to Everton this summer and has already strengthened the area with the signing of USA international Sebastian Berhalter. However, Hellberg has stated that further additions are expected as Borough continues to strengthen its team.

Justin Devenny’s senior career highlights: dates, club appearances, and goals.
2021-22: Broomhill FC (2-3) 2022-23: Airdrieonians (5-5) 2023-present: Crystal Palace (60-4)
Devenny, who has proven himself capable of playing in a variety of midfield positions, would be another versatile option. His energy and mobility would also meet the demands of Hellberg’s pressing approach, and his age suggests there is room for additional improvement.

Borough has already been busy in the transfer market, signing Will Lankshear, Berhalter, Max Arfsten, Radek Vitek, and other players as they prepare for the new season.

Hellberg commended the effort being done behind the scenes to create what he characterised as the finest possible squad, but acknowledged that the rebuild will take time.

However, the Devenny scenario appears to be less progressed than some of other mergers.

How Middlesbrough supporters react to Justin Devenny’s interest

Borough supporters have had mixed feelings about Devenny, with some seeing him as an intriguing prospective acquisition while others are sceptical of his record at Palace.

One admirer called the probable move a “mega signing,” while another just stated that they “really like” the concept.

For the time being, the price remains the most important consideration. Middlesbrough have showed a willingness to invest extensively in their squad this summer, but Nixon’s update implies there is still work to be done if they are to convert their interest in Devenny into a completed transaction.