Rhodes in Middlesbrough talks

Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes has held talks with Aitor Karanka regarding his future at the club, according to the Daily Star.

The Scotland international moved to the Riverside Stadium from Blackburn Rovers in January and scored six goals in eighteen Championship appearances to help the North East club secure their return to the top-flight.

However, he has barely featured this campaign after falling behind Alvaro Negredo in the pecking order, with three of his four Premier League outings coming as a substitute.

Despite his lack of game time, Karanka has assured the twenty-six year old that he is part of his plans though he may be tempted to move should a suitable offer come in, with Aston Villa keeping a close eye on the situation.

Boro are just a point outside of the relegation zone but have lost just one of their last five league games and are now priced at 9/2 to be relegated.