Middlesbrough have produced many promising young talents over the years, with plenty going on to play for bigger clubs and gain international caps.
The latest Middlesbrough academy graduate to attract attention from the Premier League is young defender Nathan Wood. The 17-year old became Boro’s youngest ever player last season, when he came on for Daniel Ayala in the EFL Cup win over Notts County.
Wood has been on the subs bench for Jonathan Woodgate’s side more often than not so far this season, but he is yet to make an appearance in the Championship.
Reports in The Sun now claim Burnley are ready to splash £9 million on the promising teenager, with Tottenham and Arsenal also scouting the central defender.
The article states than Burnley are front of the queue in the pursuit of Wood, but it is understood Middlesbrough are keen to keep hold of one of their most talented prospects.
The Clarets snapped up defender Ben Gibson from Boro last summer, and Sean Dyche’s side also placed an £8 million bid for Middlesbrough’s Dael Fry over the summer, although this was ultimately rejected, with the Teessiders holding out for around £15 million.
After signing his first professional contract with the club, Nathan Wood said: “I want to be in the first team.
“I know I’m young, I’m 17, but I’m ambitious and I want to be in the team.”
Wood’s chance in the first team in the Championship may come quicker than he expected however, with a minimal number of options in central defence at Woodgate’s disposal.
