Source: SKY_Sports
Southgate waits on transfers
Gareth Southgate insists Middlesbrough are still waiting to see what is going to happen in the transfer market.
Boro hope to have sold record signing Afonso Alves before the transfer window shuts next week, whilst Tuncay Sanli, Robert Huth and David Wheater are all thought to be attracting interest.
However, as yet Boro have not tied up any major deals apart from the sale of Stewart Downing to Aston Villa.
"There is noting to report on incomings and outgoings, as and when we will let everyone know," Southgate told Sky Sports News.
"It is all hypothetical, there will be speculation about any number of players and we have got several good players here and there are many clubs in similar situations and until we get offers in we have nothing to worry about."
Southgate admits that the club are not looking to bring in any major arrivals unless they free up room in their squad first.
"It really depends on what happens with people leaving, if we lose players we need to replace, if not I feel we have a very strong squad - so it is pointless me attempting to bring players in.
"Discussions are now at an advanced stage over players leaving the club and I'm pretty certain that something will happen this week.
"When, and if, the time comes to move into the transfer market then I believe I have every scenario covered.
"However, until players leave, I can't say which ones I will be able to replace.
"It's not a straightforward situation, but I am ready to move if I am in a position to bring in replacements."
Meanwhile, the club have confirmed highly-rated left-back Joe Bennett has agreed a new three-year contract.
The England youth international made his Boro debut in the final game of last season and he is expected to push on for a first-team place this term.
"We are delighted with Joe's progress and we foresee him being a part of our first team squad over the forthcoming weeks," said Southgate.
"I love his attitude to the game as he has a real drive and enthusiasm, while he's got real quality on the ball and is a tough kid.
"He's now got to go out and earn his next contract as soon as he can."
The club also confirmed that Gary O'Neill is set to have his operation on his hernia problem - after previously delaying it for a few weeks.
"Gary was very, very sore towards the end of the Scunthorpe game," Southgate added.
"So we felt it was better for him to have the operation sooner rather than later.
"He shouldn't miss any more games than he would have done earlier.
"There's a good chance he will be back for the home game against Ipswich after the international break."
