Middlesbrough assistant manager Robbie Keane was in the stands to watch Aberdeen striker Sam Cosgrove in action against Rangers last night, according to the Daily Record.

The Scottish publication reports that Boro are targeting the 23-year-old as they look to strengthen their forward line in the January transfer window.

Cosgrove has scored 18 goals in just 22 appearances this season and is a player in demand with Stoke City and Derby County also said to be keeping tabs on the player.

The forward started life in Everton’s academy before making his first-team breakthrough at Wigan. He then had spells with Barrow, Chorley and North Ferriby United on loan prior to getting a permanent switch to Carlisle United.

Cosgrove spent just six months at the League Two club, though, after Aberdeen snapped him up on deadline day in January 2018. Over the last two years, the Englishman has gone on to score 39 goals in 72 appearances for the Scottish Premiership side.