Rob Edwards can solve major Middlesbrough problem by signing ‘superb’ Premier League talent

Add as preferred source on Google

Middlesbrough are one of many Championship clubs going through a managerial change this summer ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

After a disappointing 10th-place finish in 2024/25, Middlesbrough sacked Michael Carrick on June 4, with the former Manchester United man failing to reach the play-offs.

Rob Edwards is set to be unveiled as the new Boro boss this week after agreeing compensation with Luton Town, and several issues need resolving upon his arrival, none more so than the right-back position.

Anfernee Dijksteel has left Middlesbrough as a free agent with his contract expiring on June 30, and the only other right-sided option in the squad is Luke Ayling, though he could also leave this summer.

So, with potentially no senior right-backs available in his squad, Edwards’ number one priority can be filled by an incredible Premier League talent.

• READ MORE: Rob Edwards could give Luke Ayling Middlesbrough lifeline by making one change this summer

Rob Edwards should make Alfie Gilchrist his first Middlesbrough signing

EFL Analysis have exclusively revealed that Boro are interested in Chelsea’s Alfie Gilchrist alongside Sheffield United and multiple other unnamed Championship clubs.

Gilchrist was sent on loan to Bramall Lane last season, and the 21-year-old was ‘superb’ for Chris Wilder at right-back before suffering an ankle injury against Hull City in January.

Capable of operating on the right or as a centre-back, the Englishman showed his class in the second tier, with his versatility making him perfect for Edwards’ system.

During his time as Luton boss, Edwards mainly used a three-man defence, so being able to operate as a centre-back or wing-back has to be a huge pulling point for the new manager.

Encouragingly, Chelsea are willing to sell their talented defender this summer, giving Boro all the more reason to make him their starting right-back for years to come.

Gilchrist ticks all the boxes for what the Championship side need, too, given he’s young, has limitless potential, already has experience of the division and boasts brilliant versatility.

• READ MORE: Sergej Jakirovic has two secret weapons at Hull City who can take the Championship by storm in 2025/26

Gilchrist’s most impressive stats

In his first full campaign of senior football, the young defender didn’t shirk responsibility in a competitive Sheffield United squad.

He stamped his authority on Wilder’s side and looked like he’d been playing professional football for over a decade, which speaks volumes of his attitude and quality.

As highlighted by FBref, Gilchrist ranked in the top 3% of Championship defenders in 2024/25 for blocks per game (1.88), while he was placed in the top 6% for progressive passes (5.14).

If he were to play as a wing-back in Edwards’ formation, he would need to have the energy as well as the defensive and attacking qualities to get up and down. Fortunately, he possesses those in abundance.