Middlesbrough enter race to sign Hugill

Middlesbrough have made an approach for West Ham’s Jordan Hugill.

It looks to be another blow to QPR’s already faint hopes of a loan deal for the striker – who is from Middlesbrough.

Leeds have also shown an interest in Hugill, who was signed by West Ham from Preston in January.

Reports have touted QPR as favourites to land Hugill, but Rangers have long believed their only hope of doing so is if he chooses to stay in London, having relocated following his move from Preston, and have also felt there is every chance West Ham will sell him rather than loan him out.

The R’s were keen to sign him during his time at Deepdale and at one stage during the January window believed they were edging towards a deal to sign him for around £1.3m.

Other clubs then made offers, sparking a bidding war which ended in him moving to West Ham for around £9m.

Middlesbrough boss Tony Pulis is also keen on Luke Freeman but there has so far been no improved offer since QPR rejected a recent approach for the midfielder.