Former Nottingham Forest striker Britt Assombalonga has officially been released by Middlesbrough, amid talk of a potential return to the Reds.
Before the end of the season, Boro boss Neil Warnock had revealed the 28-year-old would be let go. And that has been confirmed with the publication of the club’s retained list, making Assombalonga available on a free transfer this summer.
The Reds are said to have been keeping tabs on the front man, who left the City Ground to join Middlesbrough for £15m in 2017.
A number of other Championship sides are reportedly keen, with Scottish giants Rangers and teams in Turkey also linked.
Assombalonga netted 47 goals in 161 appearances for Boro, finding the net five times in 32 games during the campaign just gone.
But last month, Warnock said he and Ashley Fletcher would depart once their deals were up and left them out of the final matches of the season.
“We’ve told them that they won’t be involved again now,” he said at the time.
“They won’t play and they won’t train with us.
“I just felt it was the right time.
“It’s difficult for players as well – it’s not their fault altogether.”
Announcing their retained list, Middlesbrough said: "We would like to thank all departing players for their efforts during their time with the club, and wish them the best of luck in their future careers."
Strengthening his attacking resources is a priority for Forest boss Chris Hughton during the transfer window, with the Reds tracking a number of potential targets.
