Middlesbrough's transfer 'focus' with Michael Carrick excited by summer business

MICHAEL Carrick says Middlesbrough have achieved a key transfer aim in getting some of their business done early, with the head coach excited by his new recruits - but Boro aren't finished yet.

Luke Ayling has made his deal permanent after impressing on loan in the second half of the season and he was followed through the door by forward Delano Burgzorg, with the pair having both reported to Rockliffe this week for the start of pre-season.

They'll soon be joined by Aidan Morris, who is set to finalise his switch from Columbus Crew, and while the midfielder's workload will be closely managed given he's yet to have a break with the MLS season still running, to get three players in before June is out is a major boost for Boro and Carrick.

"We tried, it was something we really focused on," admitted the head coach.

"It's not always easy or possible and just because someone might come in later it doesn't mean it's a last minute decision, it just means the process takes different twists and turns."

READ MORE:

• Opposition boss will be forced into Middlesbrough rethink after recent rant

• Michael Carrick's Swansea admission, Derby warning & Middlesbrough fixtures verdict

• Middlesbrough & Sunderland set for imminent confirmation of fixture changes for TV

Boro are still targeting a centre-forward this summer, though are willing to be patient on that front as they assess the market. And the Championship promotion hopefuls will keep tabs on Ryan Giles' situation.

Signing Ayling on a permanent deal was identified as a priority after the former Leeds defender made such a big impact on loan. The 32-year-old registered eight assists in 11 games and played a starring role in what was an impressive and encouraging end to last season for Boro.

Burgzorg, meanwhile, caught Boro's eye during his loan at Huddersfield last season and Carrick says the 25-year-old will bring a different dimension to his forward line.

"Certainly with Luke and Delano, we're delighted to have them both in," he told the club website.

"Luke was a no-brainer for us, he was terrific, he's a real presence and character around the group. He played ever so well and knows what it takes to get promoted, so that was important.

"Delano, we've seen him in the league, prepared to play against him, he's a real threat. He has slightly different attributes to our other forwards, so we're excited to have that blend.

"It's a long season so we need players to be in at certain times and we need to build that squad that's capable of challenging."

The arrival of Morris will tick another crucial box for Boro. The USA international was Boro's top target as they set about strengthening their midfield ranks.

He played his final game for Columbus Crew at the weekend and is now due on Teesside to become a Boro player.