Middlesbrough are back in the chase for Sunderland's Matthew Kilgallon.
Middlesbrough manager Gordon Strachan has brought in six players already this season, as he looks to improve on last year's finish of 11th place.
Strachan, however is still not satisfied with his defence, with former Boro left-back high on his priorities but the Scot has joined the race to land the ex-Leeds United and Sheffield United player, who would provide more strength in the centre of defence.
Rochdale's Craig Dawson is thought to be the former Celtic manager's preferred choice, but with the League One outfit refusing to lower their asking price, Strachan has pursed other options - with the North East club thought to leading the race.
Boro initially wanted Kilgallon when he left the Blades for Sunderland in January, on a three-year deal.
But the 26-year-old has only made seven appearances under Steve Bruce and it appears Bruce is ready to let him leave.
However, they are not alone in their pursuit of Kilgallon, with Preston, Leicester and Cardiff all showing an interest in the centre-back.