Middlesbrough’s 2024 summer transfer window proved to be a resounding success, with one of the most sought-after signings being Tommy Conway.
The former Bristol City striker was the subject of significant interest from several clubs, including a Premier League side, but ultimately chose to continue his development at the Riverside Stadium. Now, a key Boro figure has revealed more details behind the move, including the one reason it was easier to get done.
Middlesbrough’s Head of Football, Kieran Scott, has been instrumental in transforming the club’s recruitment strategy since his arrival from Norwich City in 2021. His impact was again evident this summer as Boro strengthened the squad with key signings while focusing on quality over quantity. The 2023 window had been a busy one for Middlesbrough, and this time around, Scott focused on adding depth and balance to Michael Carrick’s side rather than an overhaul.
The transfer window saw the early arrivals of Luke Ayling, Aidan Morris, and Delano Burgzorg, all of whom have become key players for the team. Micah Hamilton, Ben Doak, and George Edmundson followed later in the window, bringing further depth to the squad. However, the headline signing was undoubtedly the acquisition of Tommy Conway for £4.5 million, a deal that highlighted the growing ambition of Middlesbrough.
Scott, speaking on the You Are My Boro podcast, revealed that competition for Conway’s signature was fierce, with clubs from both the Championship and Premier League keen to secure the striker. Burnley and Hull City were also interested in the 22-year-old, but Scott and his recruitment team managed to persuade Conway that Middlesbrough was the best destination for him.
“There was a lot of competition for Tommy, you know. Bristol City are very renowned for selling very well,” Scott explained. “They’ve sold a lot of players for a lot of money over recent years, so they’re not an easy club to negotiate with.”
Conway’s contract situation, with only one year remaining at Bristol City, gave Middlesbrough a window of opportunity, but Scott acknowledged that it was far from a straightforward deal.
“Tommy only had one year left [on his contract], which was probably the only real reason we had any chance of getting a deal done,” Scott said. “There were big clubs that came in from our division. There was even a little sneak of someone in a division higher to sort of bring him in and blood him into that sort of system.”
The decisive factor in securing Conway’s services was Middlesbrough’s ability to convince the player of their vision for his future. Scott highlighted the hard work behind the scenes to make the deal happen.
“There was a lot of competition, and we worked really hard. We convinced Tommy that we would be the right place for him,” Scott added. “He’s got the personality to play for a club like this, for sure, so I’m really pleased with Tommy and hopefully, he has a good career.”
Conway’s arrival was met with high expectations, but the Scotland international has had a relatively slow start to his Boro career. After making his debut as a late substitute in a goalless draw against Derby County, Conway scored a penalty in the 2-2 draw with Portsmouth the following week. His first start came on 31st August in a 2-0 win over Cardiff City, where he struggled to make a significant impact, largely due to being deployed out of position on the left wing.
Despite this, Carrick praised Conway’s performance after the Cardiff game. “He was great,” the Boro boss told Teesside Live, despite the striker being played out wide rather than in his preferred role through the middle.
Conway is yet to showcase his full potential in a Middlesbrough shirt, but there is optimism that with more time and a chance to play in his favoured number nine position, he will begin to thrive. For now, though, Emmanuel Latte Lath remains Carrick’s first-choice striker, meaning Conway may have to be patient for further opportunities to lead the line.
Writer’s View
The signing of Tommy Conway is a statement of intent from Middlesbrough, especially given the stiff competition for his signature. Kieran Scott’s recruitment prowess continues to elevate the club, and securing a young, talented striker like Conway bodes well for the future. While Conway’s start has been slow, it’s clear that the club sees him as a key part of their long-term plans.
Conway’s patience will be tested, but with Middlesbrough’s ambition and Michael Carrick’s management, he has every opportunity to develop into a star at the Riverside Stadium. The challenge now lies in integrating him fully into the squad and giving him the chance to prove himself as Boro’s leading striker.
