Middlesbrough have told forward Micah Hamilton he will not travel to the Portugal training camp, signalling the club expects him to leave before the transfer window closes.

Why is Hamilton excluded from the squad?

Hamilton joined Boro from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, but he has only managed 21 appearances and failed to secure a regular spot. The 22‑year‑old was omitted from the 25‑man squad for the second half of last season, even though the club registered just 23 players. This summer he has been deemed surplus to requirements and instructed to stay in England, where he can trial with other clubs.

What does this mean for Middlesbrough’s wage bill?

Boro hope the move will free up funds as they rebuild after missing out on promotion. Hamilton still has two years left on his contract, but the club is ready to let him go permanently or arrange another loan after his spell at Stockport County. Allowing him to trial – he recently featured for St Mirren in a friendly – could accelerate a permanent exit and ease the wage burden.

How does this fit into the club’s summer plans?

Middlesbrough sit 5th in the Championship with 80 points from 46 games, recent form LLDDW, and are 15 points behind leaders Coventry. The squad is training on the continent, but injured duo Riley McGree and Tommy Conway remain sidelined. Young prospects such as Law McCabe, George McCormick and Isaac Greenup are also on the Portugal trip, while Aidan Morris is expected to join shortly.

What are the next steps for Hamilton?

The forward has permission to seek a new club and will continue training in England while Boro monitor any offers. If a permanent deal materialises, he could leave before the season starts; otherwise a further loan remains possible. Either way, his departure is part of a broader effort to reshape the squad ahead of a decisive push for promotion.