If Rav van den Berg were to leave Middlesbrough this summer, the club would need to replace a versatile, ball-playing centre-back who can also operate across the backline. Based on current transfer speculation, Middlesbrough’s recruitment strategy, and the need for realistic targets within the Championship or attainable from other leagues, here are some potential defensive replacements.
Andrew Omobamidele (Nottingham Forest)
Omobamidele’s Championship experience and ball-playing nous make him an ideal like-for-like replacement. His lack of minutes at Forest suggests he could be available for a loan or permanent move, fitting Middlesbrough’s shrewd transfer approach. His youth and international pedigree align with Boro’s strategy of signing high-potential players.
Jorne Spileers (Club Brugge)
Middlesbrough’s success in tapping the European market for young talent (e.g., Van den Berg from PEC Zwolle) makes Spileers a realistic target. His age and skill set fit Boro’s model of signing emerging prospects who can develop and potentially be sold for profit. He’d suit Edwards’ possession-based system.
Lamare Bogarde (Aston Villa)
Bogarde’s versatility and youth make him a direct stylistic match for Van den Berg. His ability to play multiple roles across the backline or in midfield suits Edwards’ tactical flexibility. As a fringe player at Villa, he’d likely seek regular football, which Boro can offer in their promotion push.
Alfie Jones (Hull City)
While older than Van den Berg, Jones offers Championship nous and consistency, which could stabilize Boro’s defense alongside younger players like Hunt. His experience would complement Edwards’ system, and his potential availability aligns with Middlesbrough’s transfer activity.
