Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate says that his interest in AZ Alkmaar′s Iceland international Gretar Steinsson.
Southgate is looking for cover at right back following the departures of Abel Xavier and Stuart Parnaby and a serious injury to Tony McMahon.
Steinsson, 25, was rumoured to be on Southgate′s radar and he said the defender was one of several players he is presently monitoring.
"He′s one of a number of players we′ve watched however we haven′t got any bids in as yet for anyone in that position," Southgate mentioned on Middlesbrough′s official website, mfc.co.uk.
"Having lost Abel Xavier and Stuart Parnaby, right back is certainly one position we′re looking at because Tony McMahon is still recuperating from a broken leg. We′ve got young players we can look at in pre season. However, we′d like a bit of experience there and we require competition for places everywhere."
Meanwhile, Southgate has said recent signing Tucay Sanli will not be joined at the Riverside by Turkey team mate Gokdeniz Karadeniz.
The Trabzonspor player was linked with Boro in recent weeks.
Southgate also said Cameroon midfielder Geremi would not be returning to the club. He expects to join Newcastle from Chelsea.
16 06 2007
Bolton Wanderers have played down reports saying that they are close to signing Trabzonspor′s Turkey international winger Gokdeniz Karadeniz.
The 27 year old was watched by the Trotters during his country′s recent friendly against Brazil, however played for only 25 minutes, leaving manager Sammy Lee playing his cards close to his chest.
He informed the Bolton News, "We′ve had some good reports, however he didn′t play a full game and it could be wrong of us to take a risk on a player on the strength of 25 minutes. You read things in some of the papers and you wonder where it comes from. However, it′s the silly season and people appear to be using Bolton Wanderers to create interest in players. There are a lot of negotiations going on in the background, however rather than blowing trumpets, out of respect for the individuals involved, the holding club and our own club, I prefer not to talk about them until the deals are done. We have our irons in the fire however it′s only a question of waiting to see how things develop."
