Middlesbrough opinion: Should Boro win the race for Liam Lindsay?

According to reports from the Scottish Sun, Barnsley have opened the door for Liam Lindsay to move to a Championship rival. The club have rejected a bid from Italian side Brescia for the centre-back and the report has added that it gives West Brom, Derby County and even Middlesbrough a chance.

However, this is a race that Middlesbrough have to win, especially if the club are to start thriving in the Championship. So far, since being relegated, Boro have finished 5^th and 7^th in the two seasons they’ve played in the Championship.

They managed to stay just one season in the Premier League after taking seven long years to get there. But now things need to change and if nothing else, the Riverside club have a chance to at least make an impact in the upcoming season.

Finishing in a direct promotion spot or a play-off place will allow them a chance to fight for their future. That is easier said than done and with the club losing four players, they need to add reinforcements.

Of course, given that they might hold onto to the players they have, that doesn’t mean that Middlesbrough cannot do without someone like Liam Lindsay.  The 23-year-old played an integral part as the Oakwell side finished in an automatic promotion spot. Lindsay’s presence made a big difference.

The Scottish centre-back played 89% of the games, with 41 appearances to his name. He missed only four league games, showing impressive consistency for a player of his age.

A left-footed centre-back, the 23-year-old has flourished this season and more importantly, done well with the ball at his feet. His cool and composed nature makes him a passing outlet when moving forward, and he is always reliable with the ball.

While that does make Lindsay a great move for Middlesbrough, it’s his aggression and defensive positional sense that the club needs more. An excellent defender, the 23-year-old knows exactly when to make a move and when not to.

That combined with his physicality, athleticism and 6’2” frame, makes him very hard to get past. It’s why he’d be a great asset for Boro, and alongside the likes of Daniel Ayala, Dael Fry and even Aden Flint, Lindsay would only improve and learn from the experienced centre-backs.

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Conclusion

Liam Lindsay may be a very talented defender but it’s Middlesbrough who need the 23-year-old more than he needs them. As mentioned above, the Scottish international has quite a few clubs after him and Boro would be a good option.

If Boro are to move forward, it’s players like Liam Lindsay who will make a big difference.