Middlesbrough FC 'aiming' to prise Sheffield United-linked winger Lewis Dobbin from Aston Villa
Middlesbrough have been named as admirers of a Sheffield United-linked winger
Middlesbrough are reportedly aiming to sign Lewis Dobbin from Aston Villa on a permanent basis - despite talk of interest from Sheffield United.
The 23-year-old made the switch from Everton to Villa in 2024, but has been unable to establish himself in the Midlands.
He has been loaned to West Bromwich Albion, Norwich City and Preston North End, accumulating Championship experience away from his parent club. Last season, the former England youth international registered 10 goals and eight assists in the second tier for Preston.
Middlesbrough ‘aiming’ to land Aston Villa winger
Sheffield United have been linked with the direct wideman, although Football Insider have claimed Middlesbrough are now lining up a move.
Boro have been named as admirers of Dobbin, who would arguably be a shrewd addition for any Championship club with their sights set on promotion.
He is under contract at Villa Park until 2028 and Middlesbrough will therefore have to pay a decent fee for his signature.
Middlesbrough transfer talk
Most of the transfer talk among Middlesbrough fans of late has concerned Hayden Hackney, the club’s coveted midfielder who is being pursued by Everton.
However, reports crediting Middlesbrough with interest in potential signings are starting to emerge at speed. Among those to have been linked with moves to the Riverside are Everton midfielder Harrison Armstrong and AFC Bournemouth forward Daniel Jebbison.
After Middlesbrough’s Championship play-off final loss to Hull City, head coach Kim Hellberg said: “How we have played football, how we have performed, how we have strengthened the bond together, how we have fought together, how we have been playing the way we play. There's a lot of things that have been very good.
“But at the end of the day, we were very close, both in the league for automatic and here. But we haven't been good enough, and that's what we have to try to be next year."