Middlesbrough are one of seven clubs who are “looking closely” at Charlton Athletic forward Lyle Taylor, according to TEAMTalk.

The website claims that Boro, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Burnley, Preston, Stoke City and Rangers are all interested in the 30-year-old, who will leave the Valley at the end of this month.

Taylor is one of three Charlton players who have opted against playing for the Addicks, with their contracts soon to expire, despite Championship games having been scheduled before the end of June.

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate could do with strengthening his options up front, with the Teessiders having only mustered 37 goals in 37 league games this campaign.

Taylor has bagged himself 11 goals in 22 appearances for Charlton, and the fact that he is available on a free transfer will make him particularly sought after.

With Boro unlikely to be able to invest money in transfers, securing someone like the Charlton striker could prove to be worth its weight in gold if they can pull it off.