Middlesbrough have entered the race to sign West Ham United right back Sam Byram, according to The Mirror. Nottingham Forest have been interested in the player for some time, but the former Leeds United defender now seemingly has a decision to make on who he signs for next.
Byram finds himself out of favour with the Hammers, despite the managerial change and appointment of ex-Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini. The move from Leeds has not turned out as intended, so dropping back into the Sky Bet Championship appears his best hope of playing more regular football.
Aitor Karanka is desperately hoping to add another right back to his squad at the City Ground. At this stage, there is only really Tendayi Darikwa in this role, especially after Eric Lichaj left over the summer for league rivals Hull City. Adding Byram fuels competition for places in this area, which makes for a more competitive squad.
In the case of Middlesbrough, they too are fairly short of options in this area. Ryan Shotton is the first choice in that position at this stage. Martin Cranie joined on loan last season, which suggested that Pulis is not entirely happy with his depth in this area. Byram is proven at Sky Bet Championship level from his time at Leeds. The 24-year-old came through the ranks at Elland Road, before going on to appear well over 100 times for the football club. He exited in 2016 in a £4million deal, but has only started 17 league matches since then, and is clearly frustrated by the lack of regular opportunities.
