Aitor Karanka has confirmed the club is working towards bringing in a defensive midfielder to bolster the squad for the second half of the season.



The Boro Head Coach is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding possible strengthening during the January transfer window - but has confirmed one void he is looking to fill.



"We've lost Zuculini and Jack Stephens and we are searching to replace them," he confirmed. "The central defensive/midfield position is a difficult position to fill.



"We need one more midfielder and a central defender. We need players who can play in both positions but if we can find one player who can play in both positions then all the better."



Karanka has been linked with a host of players and the speculation season is now in full force after the transfer window opened at the turn of the year.



"We've been working since September because we know we have to be ready. We know players in England and in other countries and we have a good list of names so you never know," he said.



"It's a good attraction for players where we are at the moment, but they also know how difficult it is to play here.



"The first transfer window I was here was a nightmare, but our position is completely different now.



"The players who will come will come knowing they are coming to a good team."







