Middlesbrough could lose Matt Targett in January as parent club Newcastle United struggles with defensive injuries.
Middlesbrough have had a fantastic campaign so far Kim Hellberg hits the ground running after Rob Edwards’ departure. Boro are in second place and will be keen to strengthen their position with some new signings.
The January transfer window brings an important period for Teesside. The priority for Hellberg will be keeping this thriving group together, but one man who may be leaving is loanee Matt Targett.
The left-back made a big impression while on loan from Newcastle United, playing a central role and performing well. However, numerous defensive injuries at St. James’ Park mean Targett is reportedly in line for a January recall.
It will leave Middlesbrough in need of a replacement. Here we introduce three players that could be interesting…
Harry Pickering – Blackburn Rovers
Harry Pickering seems destined to leave Blackburn Rovers this winter. Despite defensive problems and injuries at Ewood Park, the 26-year-old has been completely frozen out by Valerien Ismael.
It also comes as a surprise. Pickering has proven himself as a very stable left-back in the Championship, and importantly, he boasts the ability to fill in at full-back or as a left-sided centre-back as well. He can only really offer the latter in a back three, but it is a valuable trait nonetheless.
There is talk that a loan could be arranged, but it would not be a surprise if Pickering left permanently. If the door opens, Middlesbrough will have to consider a move.
Abdullah Iqbal – Mjallby AIF
More in left field now, but Pakistan captain Abdullah Iqbal could be one of several stars plucked from Allvsenskan’s surprise 2026 winner Mjallby. He mainly operates as a central defender, but has previously played as a left back and even in defensive midfield.
Iqbal could be a cost considering Mjallby’s win and his long-term contract until 2028. Nevertheless, if Boro are looking for a longer-term solution on the left side of their defense, he will be an intriguing option to consider.
Although he has a very different profile to Targett, at 23 he could be a long-term option as a left-sided centre-back.
Abdullah Iqbal’s Allsvenskan statistics for 2025
| Games | Goals | Assists | Clean sheets |
| 24 | 0 | 2 | 11 |
Leo Hjelde – Sunderland
Last but not least, there is a player from a rival from the Northeast. While Targett returns to Newcastle United, Middlesbrough may be able to sign Leo Hjelde from Sunderland.
The Norwegian is one of several players who find themselves well back in the pecking order following the Black Cats’ success in the Premier League. It feels almost certain that the 22-year-old will leave in January, and his ability to play as a left-back and centre-back makes him a perfect replacement for Targett.
Boro could sign him on loan or permanently. Perhaps an initial temporary deal would be best, so that the situation can be assessed in the summer.
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