Middlesborough are keen on Fleetwood Town forward Wes Burns as reported by The Sun (10 November, page 59) via HITC Sport.
The report claims Boro are looking to sign the twenty-four-year-old in January as they look to strengthen their under-performing squad with one eye on the finances. With Premier League parachute payments running out, chairman Steve Gibson is keen to make intelligent, low-cost moves in the market and Burns appears to fit the bill.
Manager Jonathan Woodgate is under enormous pressure just months into his first-ever managerial role. He would no doubt welcome some additional creativity to his squad after a terrible start to the campaign. The former Premier League club is currently in the relegation zone after winning just two of their first sixteen Championship games, scoring only thirteen goals.
The versatile winger signed for Fleetwood from Bristol City in 2017. While at Ashton Gate, he went on several loan spells, starting with a short stint at Forest Green Rovers. He also had spells at Oxford United, Cheltenham Town, Fleetwood Town and Aberdeen before signing permanently at Highbury; he’s since made one hundred and twelve appearances for the Fishermen across all competitions.
Burns has been a crucial figure this campaign, contributing four assists in eighteen outings as Joey Barton’s men continue to impress with a concerted effort at a League One playoff push.
The Cod Army are fifth in the table, and HITC claims it will take a substantial bid to tempt them to sell a key player in January.
Our View
Middlesborough are in a relegation scrap, and fans will be hoping to add some quality in January.
However, Burns is a great player at League One level, but we are unsure he’s good enough for the Championship.
Fleetwood are also in good health financially, and it is unclear whether Gibson would get him cheaply.
Every player has their price, but Barton will be keen to keep hold of Burns to help him push for a playoff place in May.
It should also be said that on the current form, the two clubs could pass each other in the summer.
