Middlesbrough could find themselves looking for yet more central defensive reinforcements in the summer transfer window.
One player they brought in last year to add to their options in that position was Rav van den Berg.
The 19-year-old joined on a four-year contract from PEC Zwolle in his native Netherlands.
Since then, he has become a vital component for Middlesbrough, winning plenty of praise for his performances for Michael Carrick‘s side.
Now though, he is starting to attract attention from elsewhere. Recent reports have claimed that a number of Premier League clubs including Everton, Crystal Palace, Brighton and West Ham are keen to sign the centre back.
Losing van den Berg would be a blow for ‘Boro, and leave a void in their side that would need to be filled.
So with that in mind, we’ve taken a look at three replacements for the Dutchman that Middlesbrough could target this summer, right here.
Nat Phillips may need a permanent club
While he has done a solid job at times when called upon, Nat Phillips has never been able to make himself an established presence in the Liverpool starting XI.
That has seen him loaned out on numerous occasions. The latest of those moves has seen him link with Cardiff City until the end of this season. During that stint in the Welsh capital, he has impressed, showing he is more than capable of holding his own in the Championship.
As a result, he may be a useful option for Middlesbrough to consider as a replacement for van den Berg. It is worth noting that he will be entering the final year of his contract with Liverpool in the summer. That could therefore be a good time for him to look for a permanent move elsewhere. Indeed, with just 88 senior appearances to his name at 27 years old, Phillips could well benefit from a move such as that, to finally start playing the regular football he surely wants.
Charlie Cresswell has been linked with Middlesbrough before
A previous ‘Boro target who they may want to revisit in the summer is Leeds United’s Charlie Cresswell.
The centre back has impressed in the past at Elland Road. He was also a reliable option for Millwall while on loan at The Den last season. During that time, he has played as part of both a back four and back three.
As a result, he could no doubt do a job for Middlesbrough if he made this move. Indeed, after making just five Championship appearances for Leeds United this season, a transfer in the summer could be best for all concerned.
Dion Sanderson provides versatility
Van den Berg has operated at right-back as well as centre back for Middlesbrough at times this season.
If that versatility is something that ‘Boro want, they could arguably do worse than Dion Sanderson. The 24-year-old has plenty of Championship experience already, and does offer that ability to play in a variety of defensive roles as well.
His role as Birmingham City captain also highlights the leadership he offers. But with the Blues currently battling to avoid relegation to the Championship, he may become available if they are unable to do that. Should that happen, Middlesbrough may need to be ready to pounce.