Italian club set sights on signing Middlesbrough star Paddy McNair – sources
Middlesbrough star Paddy McNair has emerged as a shock target for Italian side Como 1907, sources have told Football Insider.
Como 1907, who have former Chelsea midfielder Dennis Wise running the club as sporting CEO, are looking to lure Northern Ireland international McNair to Italy as they look to build a squad capable of winning promotion to Serie A.
McNair is entering the final year of his contract at Middlesbrough and Boro are bracing themselves for interest in the 28-year-old.
A number of clubs are understood to be monitoring McNairโs situation due to his versatility.
He can play as both a defender and a midfielder making him an attractive proposition for his suitors.
McNair joined Middlesbrough from Sunderland in 2018 after a lengthy spell at Man United where he progressed from the academy to the first team.
The centre-back has played 194 games for Boro since his arrival five years ago and has netted 14 goals and offered up 15 assists in those outings.
Last season, the defender made 34 appearances across all competitions and was in the starting lineup for 30 matches.
McNair has also been capped at international level for Northern Ireland and has made 49 appearances since making his debut at 19 years old.
He has also netted five goals for his country across those appearances.
Como finished the 2022-23 campaign 13th in Serie B and are looking for reinforcements in an effort to push up the table next term.
In other news, Sunderland could accept Middlesbrough bid for star striker.