After a disappointing defeat against Coventry City in the Championship playoff semi-finals, Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough are looking to build for another promotion bid next season.

One player they have in their sights is Manchester City loanee Zack Steffen, who enjoyed a fruitful campaign at the Riverside Stadium this season. Boro are hopeful they can snap up the American on a permanent basis this time – but they aren’t the only ones in pursuit of his signature [via The Northern Echo].

A reliable shot-stopper, Steffen has been one of the Championship’s top goalkeepers this season. He has played a huge role in Middlesbrough’s impressive campaign – but can Boro hold onto him with other teams looking to test the waters?

Who else is in the running to sign Zack Steffen?

As well as Middlesbrough, several clubs in the Bundesliga are believed to be interested in acquiring Steffen’s services. As things stand, they remain unnamed – but at least two German clubs are thought to be in the hunt.

Additionally, with ties to Germany, Steffen could be interested in pursuing a move to the country. In the past, he has played for both Fortuna Dusseldorf and SC Freiburg.

How crucial would Zack Steffen be to Middlesbrough promotion bid next season?

The permanent acquisition of Steffen would undoubtedly be a massive boost to Boro’s promotion hopes next season – but with other reputable clubs circling, they must make sure that they have backup options lined up if the Pennsylvania native decides to move elsewhere.

This season, Steffen has made 42 appearances for Boro. In that time, he has conceded 50 goals and kept nine clean sheets – these aren’t terrible numbers, but they also indicate that Steffen is not irreplaceable.

Not only has he impressed at club level, he has also picked up numerous caps for the USMNT. In total, he has made 29 international appearances for his country.