3 reasons why Middlesbrough simply have to win the race for Newcastle United player amid transfer link

Championship side Middlesbrough have taken an interest in Newcastle United full-back Jamal Lewis ahead of the summer transfer window, Football League World understands.

The Northern Irishman has only made five Premier League appearances for the Magpies this term, appearing in just one other competitive match this term in the Carabao Cup as he’s only been able to make a very limited impact.

Not exactly having the chance to impress under Eddie Howe as of yet, he may be available for a transfer in the summer with the Magpies potentially set to undergo a considerable makeover in the summer under the stewardship of their new owners.

Boro are one side that could be in a position to recruit him in the summer, investing heavily last summer to transform their squad under Neil Warnock but making real strides under current boss Chris Wilder.

They have aspirations of getting back to the Premier League and are currently in the mix to do so, unlikely to return via the top two this term but certainly capable of winning a top-six spot after knocking out the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup this year.

This could be a good move for Lewis then – but why would it be a great move for the Teesside outfit too? We have listed three reasons why Boro need to win this race.

Taylor’s uncertain future

Back in January, Neil Taylor signed a new contract at the Riverside Stadium to extend his stay there until the end of the season, but it’s currently unclear whether he will remain on Teesside beyond that.

In fairness to the Welshman, he has been a regular starter and that should make signing a deal a mere formality for both sides, but there’s every chance he could leave in the summer and whilst that’s a possibility, they