Burnley are have stepped up their interest in Middlesbrough teenager Nathan Wood, according to the Northern Echo. The local newspaper is reporting that the Premier League have sent a “senior scouting delegation” to see the defender in action.

The 17-year-old played for England’s Under 18s against Australia on Friday and it is believed that representatives from the Clarts were in attendance to see the centre-back play.

Reports last week suggested that Burnley are lining up a £9m bid for Wood when the transfer window reopens in January and it appears that their interest in the Boro youngster is serious.

The centre-half has not featured for manager Jonathan Woodgate in the league so far this campaign, but he was given a start in the Carabao Cup defeat to Crewe Alexandra last month.

Wood is one of the Middlesbrough’s brightest young talents and the Teessiders will be very keen to keep hold of him.