Middlesbrough are eyeing up deals for Sunderland duo Duncan Watmore and Lynden Gooch, according to TEAMtalk.

A local source has told the website that Boro lead a number of other clubs in the race to sign Watmore on a free transfer in the summer.

The forward is out of contract at the end of June, and if Sunderland are not promoted, they will not be able to keep him on his current salary. The Teessiders are said to be confident of landing the 26-year-old if he wants to stay in the North East.

Jonathan Woodgate’s side are also said to be looking at Watmore’s teammate Lynden Gooch. Even though the American international’s current deal expires in 2022, he could well be available for a low price this summer with the Black Cats needing funds if they don’t get promoted from League One.

Boro do, though, have their own financial concerns and are in danger of relegation so an approach for Gooch would likely only happen if they manage to secure their Championship status.