'Pulis sets sights on ex-Chelsea Striker & makes decision on Sheffield United loanee'

'Pulis sets sights on ex-Chelsea Striker & makes decision on Sheffield United loanee'

After a couple of days in which news of departures dominated the discussion at Boro, it seems Tony Pulis is finally serious to add names to his squad.

According to a report from Italian news outlet Fanta Gazzetta, Middlesbrough FC are looking to sign ex-Chelsea striker Stipe Perica in the January transfer window.

However, while he spent 3-years at Stamford Bridge, most Chelsea fans might not have even heard his name, as the striker failed to make a single appearance for the Blues.

Consequently, after three years of playing on loan for various sides, Perica decided to move to Italy to join Serie A side Udinese in the 2016 summer transfer window.

But reports coming out from Italy suggest that the striker could be set to make a comeback in English football, with Boro reportedly leading the race for his signature.

In addition to Boro, Serie B side Pescara are also reportedly keeping tabs on the player, who has scored 10 Serie A goals for Udinese since signing.

Provided he does sign for Boro, that might mean the end of the road for both Britt Assombalonga and Martin Braithwaite, both players who have been tipped to leave the Riverside Stadium in the upcoming window.

Given that Middlesbrough are sitting 4th in the Championship, it seems surprising to note that they have scored the least number of goals in the Championship’s top half, netting 22 goals in 20 Championship games.

Therefore, whether or not Middlesbrough make their move for Perica, a new striker is desperately needed to help Boro gain promotion come next May.

Boro Willing to Sell Marvin Johnson

Despite the fact that only 1 point separates 4th placed Boro from Sheffield United, reports claim that they won’t hesitate in selling Marvin Johnson to the Blades.

While it is still unknown the price Boro would demand for Johnson, the fact that he arrived for £2.5 million only 16 months ago suggests that Tony Pulis' side might want to recoup their investment.

Having joined Sheffield United on a season long loan at the start of this season, the 28-year-old has failed to make a decisive impact for his new club, hence the reason why he has started only 1 of the 7 games in which he has appeared for Sheffield United.

Therefore, whilst Boro might want to offload Johnson, it would be understandable if United aren’t too keen on acquiring his services on a full-time basis. 

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