MICHAEL Carrick admits January exits are “possible,” with Middlesbrough needing to clear space in their squad if they are to make any acquisitions during the winter transfer window.
Carrick is delighted with his Boro squad’s current make-up and balance, but admits the Championship promotion chasers would seek to strengthen if opportunities arise.
Boro’s squad is now at maximum capacity, allowing only players under 21 with permanent contracts to participate without registration.
Any loan signings or permanent arrivals over the age of 21 would require registration, necessitating the creation of additional space.
When asked if Boro will trade in January, Carrick replied, “Possibly.” There are many of ifs and buts. As long as we know how we want things to look, we’re quite solid and peaceful.”
Carrick has frequently discussed the importance of flexibility when it comes to transfer windows.
Injuries might alter plans. Boro, for example, did not enter the summer window with the goal of signing a left-back as a top priority, but Alex Bangura’s Achilles injury prompted them to reconsider.
Boro are now waiting to find out the severity of Luke Ayling’s knee injury sustained in the weekend triumph over Millwall.
Boro are also looking at George Edmundson’s situation, as the defender, who has been a crucial player since joining on loan from Ipswich, is nearing the conclusion of his contract at Portman Road.
There is obviously a great desire to keep star players, but Boro could face another test, with Emmanuel Latte Lath rumours increasing in recent weeks and the striker’s agent stating “something could happen” in January.
Carrick and Boro’s management and recruitment teams are fully prepared for what the window may bring.
The head coach stated, “There is usually a little things here and there that changes, and we are prepared to adapt to that, but we will stay to the plan as much as possible.
“The essential thing is that we’re relatively calm and in a good place as a group and team. If things come up that we can deal with and come out better, that’s something we’ll definitely look at.”
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