Bournemouth boss gives crucial update on Boro transfer target

Middlesbrough have received a transfer boost in their quest to sign Bournemouth defender Jack Simpson.

Now Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe admits that the 23-year-old could be allowed to leave on loan in the coming days.

Jack Simpson is regarded as a complete defender with his ability on the ball and at 6ft 3in, physical enough to deal with aerial balls.

Despite this, the defender has struggled to break into the first team and is thought to be desperate for first-team football.

Simpson featured in the FA Cup tie against Luton Town but that could be his last game for the Cherries this season.

Howe, when quizzed in an interview with the Bournemouth Echo, revealed that the defender needs regular football to develop into a better player.

"I back him to get there whether that's with us, in terms in getting in our team, or maybe looking out on loan."

This appears to be an endorsement that the 23-year-old could make a loan move in the coming days.

Simpson has been linked with a loan move to the Riverside Stadium in recent days with Derby County and Stoke City also interested in the defender.

Boro have endured a series of injuries to their defence and need to bring in a centre-back ahead of their next match against Blackburn Rovers.

Simpson fits the bill and would be able to thrive under the watchful eyes of Jonathan Woodgate.