After missing out on promotion in the last step, Middlesbrough will be desperate to make an impact next season, to try and go all the way in the Championship. Tony Pulis did a decent job last season but certainly needs a few additions to the squad this summer, to help him compete for promotion next season and one such player they are now interested in is Paddy McNair.
Born and brought up in Ireland, the 23-year old started his senior career with Manchester United but spent just a couple of seasons with the first team squad, failing to impress the Old Trafford hierarchy. He made 16 appearances in his debut season and just eight in the next before being sold to Sunderland, who were then in the top tier, for just £4.5m.
The Black Cats used him sparingly in his first season at Stadium of Light, as they dropped to the Championship in a disheartening manner. But in the second tier of English football, McNair turned into a beast, standing as one of the best performers for the side all season.
He missed a large chunk of the season with injuries but still managed five goals, four of which came in the last five games of the campaign. He also has 20 appearances for the national side and at just 23, is a player with a bright future.
A central-back by trait, McNair was used as a midfielder for the entire campaign last time around. He is a busy player in the middle of the park. He loves to test keepers from long range and is adept at creating chances when afforded any space or time on the ball. But he is more effective when defending, reading the game being his strength.
He is ready to throw himself around for his side, is quick to make interceptions in the midfield or inside the box when playing as a CB and is helpful in build-up play, thanks to his technique and confidence with the ball at his feet.
He failed to impress in his time in the Premier League but McNair has time and again shown that he is ready for the biggest stage. He may not be ready to move to back to Old Trafford but is certainly a player who can make an impact in the top flight.
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So it does not come as a surprise that Brighton are also desperate for his services. Reports suggest that Middlesbrough have already made a bid of £5m plus bonuses for McNair, which is close to being accepted. It is understood that Sunderland are happy to sell, to try and rebuild the squad in the summer while the Seagulls have cooled off interest in him.
So at his price, McNair is an absolute steal for Middlesbrough, and could probably walk into the first team at Riverside.
