Middlesbrough are in talks to sign George Edmundson permanently after he was recalled by Ipswich Town, according to reporter Graeme Bailey.
Middlesbrough aim to improve their promotion chances by bringing in new players. Boro have surged to fifth place in the Championship standings, with the rest of the chasing group failing.
Signings should only aid Michael Carrick’s ambitions to bring Premier League football back to the Riverside, but there appears to be a transfer issue involving George Edmundson.
Boro signed the centre-back on loan from Ipswich Town in the summer, and he is currently in his final year at Portman Road. He has been playing regularly since then, but the Tractor Boys decided to recall him this month, presumably to try to obtain a fee while they can.
Following his recall, Middlesbrough and Ipswich Town are reportedly in talks. Graeme Bailey has stated on X that conversations are underway regarding a possible permanent deal for Edmundson.
Boro will have to pay a fee to bring the former Rangers player back to the club this month. It’s a frustrating turn of affairs for the Teesside club, who will be disappointed that the season-long arrangement was cut short in order to force permanent transfer negotiations.
Business first
To their credit, Ipswich Town prioritises their business. They want to try to get Edmundson a fee while he is still eligible, and they have every right to do so.
However, this is a call that will elicit criticism. It does not prioritise the player’s requirements and creates uncertainty about his future with Middlesbrough.
The aim is that arrangements for a permanent transfer can be reached, allowing the centre-back to settle in on Teesside. Edmundson has already played for two clubs this season, so he’ll either stay with Ipswich or return to Boro this month.
Current centre-back options
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough faces a lack of centre-back choices.
Carrick currently has only three central defenders available: Sepp van den Berg, Adel Frey, and Matt Clarke. Boro may have challenges if Darragh Lenihan, a long-term absentee, has an injury while Edmundson returns to Ipswich Town.
The aim is that arrangements for a permanent transfer can be agreed upon, allowing the centre-back to fully settle on Teesside. Edmundson has already played for two clubs this season, so he will either stay in Ipswich or return to Boro this month.
Current centre-back options
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough faces a shortage of centre-back choices.
The only central defenders available to Carrick right now are Sepp van den Berg, Adel Frey, and Matt Clarke. Boro may have difficulties if Darragh Lenihan, a long-term absentee, has an injury on Edmundson’s return to Ipswich Town.
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