Middlesbrough have identified their key transfer priorities ahead of the summer window as the club look to build a squad capable of securing promotion to the Premier League under new head coach Kim Hellberg.
Boro’s recruitment team prepared for every scenario during the second half of last season, drawing up separate target lists depending on whether the club achieved promotion.
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Middlesbrough are reportedly aiming to sign at least one striker, a versatile forward, a wide attacker and a central midfielder this summer.
Strengthening in midfield remains a priority regardless of the future of Hayden Hackney, although replacing the academy graduate will be one of the club’s biggest challenges if he completes an expected move away this summer.
A new left-back is also on the agenda after Middlesbrough opted against making Matt Targett’s loan move permanent.
The goalkeeper department requires reinforcement too, with Joe Wildsmith and Jon McLaughlin having departed, leaving Sol Brynn as the only senior goalkeeper.
Meanwhile, three players have officially been added to Middlesbrough’s Academy after signing professional contracts, including Liverpool goalkeeper DJ Bernard.
Bernard left Liverpool following the expiry of his contract after progressing through the club’s academy. He joined the Reds at Under-13 level after being spotted in grassroots football and featured for the Under-18s during the 2024/25 campaign.
He made his Liverpool Under-18 debut in the 2025/26 FA Youth Cup third-round defeat to Charlton Athletic. A club statement read: “Three players have been added to the club’s Academy after signing professional contracts.
“Right-sider Ezra Tika-Lemba has signed after a positive trial with the club. The explosive, attack-minded full-back scored for our U21s in a 2-1 win at Liverpool last season, and brings experience from spells at Chelsea, West Ham and Newcastle United.
“Goalkeeper DJ Bernard has joined following a spell with Liverpool. He signed for Liverpool’s Academy as an Under-13s player and progressed through the ranks at the Merseyside club.
“DJ impressed in the latter part of last season in a work experience loan with our U18s, and is an U21 recruit for 2026/27.
“Cayden Cole, who is adept at playing at left-back or centre-back, has signed for our U21s following a work experience stint with the U18s.
“The son of former Premier League striker Carlton, he has schoolboy and youth experience with West Ham United and Hull City.
Three players have been added to Boro’s Academy after signing professional contracts ✍️
A warm welcome to Ezra Tika-Lemba, DJ Bernard and Cayden Cole 🙌
— Middlesbrough FC (@Boro) July 1, 2026