Championship side Middlesbrough are reportedly interested in Luton Town defender Alfie Doughty, according to EFL Analysis.
Former Luton boss Rob Edwards wants a reunion with the 25-year-old, whom he won promotion to the Premier League with in 2022/23.
Slow Summer For Middlesbrough
This summer has been frustrating so far for Boro, who are yet to make a signing, but have let some key players go.
Josh Coburn has returned to Millwall, Zach Hemming has joined League Two side Chesterfield, whilst Anfernee Dijksteel and eight-year servant Jonny Howson have both departed, departures which have been unpopular with the fans, and probably likewise with the club.
There are also fears around some of their young talent, with midfielder Hayden Hackney and centre-back Rav van den Berg also linked with moves away, and whilst other teams are strengthening their squads, Boro are being left behind in the window.
The transfer window has been open for over a month and a half, and has just over a month to go until it closes, but the EFL Championship season kicks off in three weeks’ time, and with the extremely thin squad Edwards has at his disposal, their opening day game against Swansea City looms closer day by day.
Alfie Doughty Titled a “Dream Signing”
EFL Analysis correspondent Graeme Bailey revealed:
“Rob Edwards would love him at Boro. It’s something of a dream signing for him, and Middlesbrough don’t have a lot of options on that left-hand side.
“They’ll keep pushing for him. I think there’s a good chance they do get him, but it’s not going to be easy that one. Edwards does want him. He really does.”
The 25-year-old has made over 100 appearances for Luton since joining from Stoke City three years ago. He played a crucial part in winning promotion to the Premier League, playing 31 times that season, scoring twice and providing five assists.
Even though the Hatters suffered relegation the season after, Doughty’s numbers in terms of goal output increased in the top-flight, scoring two goals and providing eight assists in 37 Premier League games. Last season, Luton suffered relegation to the third tier, with the Englishman only playing 26 times due to injury.
Writer’s View
It’s worrying to see the lack of activity Middlesbrough have been able to do this transfer window, and with other teams strengthening, alongside the strength of the league this season, if they don’t get their act together, you worry for them.
Edwards wanting a reunion with a former player who did so well under him makes sense, but it’ll take a transfer fee to prize him away from Kenilworth Road. Doughty would add a lot to this Boro squad in terms of depth, and would be a great signing if they can get it over the line.
