Middlesbrough close to seven-figure signing they have been ‘following’ for over a year plus Alfie Jones update

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EFL Analysis has gained an insight into Middlesbrough’s ongoing 2025 summer transfer window plans.

The 2025/26 Championship season is now just two weeks away, and Boro fans are still waiting for their first signing of the summer.

Middlesbrough lost their most recent pre-season friendly, and Rob Edwards wants more from certain areas of his squad.

At present, only a couple of U21 players have arrived at the Riverside Stadium, but deals are being worked on.

Middlesbrough transfer updates on Abdoulaye Kante, Alfie Jones and Callum Brittain

As well as potential arrivals, we have previously revealed that Hayden Hackney has changed agents ahead of a transfer this summer, and Rav van den Berg is wanted in the Netherlands.

Now, EFL Analysis has spoken to our transfer expert, Graeme Bailey, for an update on the latest Middlesbrough transfer business.

He told us that the Teessiders have been following Abdoulaye Kante for over a year, and he’s expected to join in a move worth less than £3m.

A transfer for Alfie Jones is also nearly done, while Middlesbrough are still pushing for a Callum Brittain deal.

He said: “Kante is coming, and Boro are very happy – they know they need numbers and some quality and they think he is that. The deal is less than £3million and is a player they have been following for more than 12 months.

“Obviously, Boro have a thin squad, but they know that Hackney and Van den Berg are looking to move and have held talks – those two will be gone by the end of August and it’s then how they replace them.

“Alfie Jones is nearly done and they are still pushing for a Callum Brittain deal.”

Abdoulaye Kante stats

Kante began his senior career with Troyes, whom he joined in 2022 from Montfermeil’s youth ranks.

The 20-year-old has made 52 senior appearances for the French club, including 29 in Ligue 2 last term, where he provided two assists.

He has earned a call-up at U23 level with the Ivory Coast but he is yet to line out for his country.