Middlesbrough will “push hard” to sign Aston Villa striker Cameron Archer on a permanent basis, according to Birmingham Mail reporter Ashley Preece.
The 21-year-old moved to the Riverside Stadium on loan during the January transfer window, and he has proven to be a great addition to Michael Carrick’s squad. Villa are, however, asking for around £20m for the player and Preece claims Boro would probably pay the fee if they are promoted to the top flight:
“As for Archer – there’s a decision to be made there. Boro will push hard if they’re promoted and I suspect they’d fork out close to £20m.”
Archer has been outstanding for Middlesbrough since his arrival at the start of this year. The England Under 21 international has bagged 10 goals and provided six assists in only 19 Championship appearances.
That sort of record will, of course, attract other potential suitors so a switch to the North East is far from certain at this stage. If Archer can help fire Boro to promotion through the playoffs, though, it would greatly improve his chances of staying.