If Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka has to cash in on any of his stars, the Albert Adomah could prove to be the most valuable, while he may face offers for defender George Friend.
The Boro boss is certain to receive enquiries for some of the men who transformed the team from mid-table also-rans to play-off finalists last season.
If these enquiries are followed by tempting offers, then Karanka’s resolve will be tested to the full.
The obvious potential target for big clubs is Albert Adomah, who improved dramatically last season under Karanka’s guidance.
Crystal Palace and Norwich City are among the Premier League sides already linked with a keen interest in Adomah.
The 27-year-old Ghanaian international has been transformed from an out-and-out attacking winger into a complete right-sided player.
The defensive side of his game has improved immensely. So much so, that Adomah carried out a key role in Boro’s successful system last season.
He still made regular forays into attacking positions, with his crosses into the goalmouth being one of the biggest producers of Boro goals.
Naturally it would be a blow to many Boro fans should Boro receive an offer for Adomah which they can’t refuse.
But Karanka will need spending money to revamp his side for another promotion battle.
In any case, Karanka can look forward to the return of his other recognised winger next season.
Muzzy Carayol is now fully recovered from a serious knee injury, having proved his fitness during a loan spell at Brighton towards the end of the season.
Karanka will hope to have Carayol firing on all cylinders following an intensive pre-season.
Carayol was arguably playing better than Adomah at the time of his injury and if Karanka and his medical team can get Muzzy back to where he left off, then it will be like signing a new player.
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