Garry Monk should look to Darren Randolph to solve Middlesbrough’s goalkeeping crisis

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Middlesbrough have been in the market for a goalkeeper to improve its Championship title-winning chances.

Last week Middlesbrough reportedly made a bid for Karl Darlow at Newcastle United, as they seek to remedy their goalkeeping shortage ahead of the season, only to see the offer rejected according to TalkSport. Whether Garry Monk goes back in for Darlow now, with an improved offer, we will have to wait and see.

However, if West Ham United keep the pressure on bringing Joe Hart to the London Stadium, as reported by the Daily Mirror, it could open a new possibility up for Middlesbrough.

Republic of Ireland’s Darren Randolph

Darren Randolph, 30, did not start last season as first choice keeper at West Ham United. Still, he got his opportunity and did well to make 22 appearances, six more than Adrian, West Ham United’s other main shot stopper.

Randolph lost his place in the side again towards the end of the season, falling behind the Spaniard in West Ham United’s last match against Liverpool. So, the Republic of Ireland International may feel he is again sitting behind Adrian, and with Joe Hart, or another top keeper a possible addition to West Ham United’s squad, the prospects for Randolph are not looking so good.

That could make him available for an ambitious, high-profile Championship side, such as Middlesbrough. Randolph impressed in the division for Birmingham City, and could see a return there as Middlesbrough’s first choice keeper one step back to move two steps forward.

The benefits for Monk and his Boro side would be clear. Randolph has proven his ability both in the top flight and on the international stage, and is more experienced than Darlow, 26, who has done neither.

West Ham United’s Darren Randolph

West Ham United may be less insistent on holding out for a top price for Randolph as Newcastle United are over Karl Darlow. Randolph signed for West Ham United in May 2015 on a free transfer.

So, Middlesbrough may find that the £5 million that was not enough to secure Karl Darlow, according to TalkSport, is enough for the Hammers to part with someone who may be their third choice come the start of the season.