Middlesbrough have been consistently linked with a move for Manchester United academy graduate Ethan Galbraith over the last few months – with the Northern Ireland international’s contract set to expire in the summer, we feel Boro should make a move as soon as possible.

It is rare that a player of Galbraith’s quality becomes available on a free transfer. At just 22 years of age, he also has plenty of room for development – his potential, at this stage, appears to be limitless.

A talented midfielder with a wide range of passing and a cavernous gas tank, he is an ideal box-to-box midfielder to have in the modern game – even if he is not the finished product as of yet.

Who else, besides Middlesbrough, are interested in a move for Ethan Galbraith?

Boro face competition for Galbraith’s signature from one of their bitterest rivals – none other than Tony Mowbray’s Sunderland. With both clubs set to do battle in the top end of the Championship next season, neither have a distinct advantage over the other.

Despite this, Boro boss Michael Carrick may be able to sway Galbraith’s mind. He worked with the player while he was progressing through the ranks of Manchester United’s academy – Galbraith may be keen on the idea of a reunion with the former Red Devils captain.

Additionally, Newcastle United are also believed to be interested in a move for the 22-year-old in the ongoing summer transfer window. However, it is difficult to see Galbraith getting regular first-team football at St. James Park – especially with international superstars such as Nicolo Barella and Sandro Tonali reportedly being targeted by the Mags.

Ethan Galbraith football career summary so far

Born in 2001, Galbraith played for the youth academies of Carnmoney Colts, Ballyclare Comrades, Glentoran, Crusaders and Linfield before making the jump to Manchester United in 2017.

He was loaned out to Doncaster Rovers in the 2021/22 – while Rovers suffered relegation to League Two that season, he was frequently touted as one of the South Yorkshire club’s most impressive players.

The following season, he went out on loan to Salford City, where he scored four goals in 32 appearances for the Ammies.