Here at the Transfer Tavern the Middlesbrough faithful are desperate for their club to avoid relegation from the Premier League and see this transfer window as key.

Aitor Karanka’s men have been largely impressive in this campaign; a strong defence has underpinned some of their best performances with away draws at Arsenal and Man City.

The Teesiders are well organised at the back and have conceded just 25 goals this season.  Their impressive defender, Ben Gibson, is a key player at the club and has been courted by the Premier League’s elite.

Middlesbrough have secured the services of Rudy Gestede and Patrick Bamford in an attempt to add more fire power to the team; Boro have scored just 18 goals in the league this season, the lowest in the division.

For Karanka the brief is clear, avoid relegation and score more goals.  Our landlord has overheard the concerned Boro fans in the Tavern recently and their two main thoughts ahead of the window are…

Can we hold on to Ben Gibson?

Ben Gibson has been in fine form this season and at just 24 he is a player with a real future. At just 6ft tall he might not be considered as one of the most aerially gifted players in the division but his awareness, strength and leadership on the pitch are vital to Boro.

Chelsea have shown interest in the former England U21 star as they look to improve their respective defences. The Boro fans are desperate for Gibson to stay and ensure the Teesiders avoid the drop.

How will the team score more goals?

Middlesbrough have scored just 18 goals this season and now with the addition of Rudy Gestede it is imperative that Aitor Karanka addresses the creativity (or lack of it) in midfield; Gaston Ramirez has been disappointing and Cristhian Stuani is yet to provide a single assist.

The Boro fans crave a player like ex-hero Juninho, a tireless midfielder who can unlock defences and score goals too. With the window closing soon the Boro fans are hoping Karanka can find that missing ingredient in midfield which will see the team score goals and climb the league table.

Boro fans – what do you think?  Let us know below!