Tyler Goodrham, a winger for Oxford United, is being considered by Middlesbrough as a possible summer addition. This could be an indication that the Riverside Stadium is getting ready for life after Finn Azaz.
Football League World exclusively disclosed on Monday afternoon that Middlesbrough, along with Championship rivals Coventry City and Southampton, are keeping an eye on Goodrham.
After an incredible individual campaign on Teesside, Azaz may be headed to the Premier League, and Michael Carrick’s recruitment team seems to be preparing in case their Irish international leaves in the upcoming months.
Middlesbrough, Southampton and Coventry in Tyler Goodrham transfer race
Tyler Goodrham – Oxford United
Goodrham has emerged as one of Oxford United’s brightest talents during their Championship campaign, establishing himself as a regular starter despite the step up from League One last season.
The versatile attacker has contributed 3 goals and 6 assists in 41 Championship appearances during the 2024/25 season, impressing with his direct running and creativity from wide positions.
Middlesbrough’s interest comes as no surprise given their reputation for identifying and developing young talent, with the club’s recruitment strategy focused on securing promising players with potential resale value, like Finn Azaz.
U’s academy graduate Goodrham is on a relatively modest estimated £2,500-per-week deal. This makes him an attractive proposition for clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options without necessarily breaking the bank.
Crystal Palace interest could prompt Finn Azaz summer exit
Finn Azaz
Middlesbrough’s pursuit of Goodrham appears strategically timed, with current attacking midfielder Finn Azaz emerging as a target for Crystal Palace following impressive performances for both club and country.
The 24-year-old, who joined Boro from Aston Villa in January 2024 for a fee of around £2.5 million, has caught the attention of Palace scouts who have been monitoring his development closely. Reports suggest two other unnamed Premier League clubs are also tracking the Irish international.
Azaz further enhanced his reputation during the March international break when he scored his first senior goal for Ireland against Bulgaria, prompting increased speculation about his future.
With Azaz commanding a weekly estimated salary of £8,500 and valued between €14.4M and €17.6M, Middlesbrough could be tempted to cash in if a substantial offer arrives this summer, particularly if they fail to secure promotion to the Premier League.
Tyler Goodrham signing would help reinspire Middlesbrough’s attacking philosophy
If Goodrham were to make the move to the Riverside Stadium, he would represent a continuation of Middlesbrough’s focus on recruiting technically gifted, forward-thinking players who fit Carrick’s possession-based system.
While primarily operating as a right winger, Goodrham’s versatility allows him to play across the attacking midfield positions, similar to the role Azaz has occupied since arriving at Middlesbrough.
Leeds United’s Joe Rothwell in action with Oxford United’s Tyler Goodrham
Goodrham’s development trajectory suggests he could perform for a top Championship side, having already proven himself at both League One and Championship level despite his tender age. His experience includes 79 appearances in League One where he netted 11 goals, demonstrating his ability to not just be considered a creative player.
Middlesbrough’s track record of developing players like Hayden Hackney and Rav van den Berg, both could now attract Premier League attention themselves, makes them an attractive destination for emerging talents looking to progress their careers.
With Azaz potentially departing for Premier League football this summer, securing Goodrham’s signature could prove to be a good piece of business by Middlesbrough as they look to bounce back after missing out on the playoffs by four points.
