Middlesbrough are in talks with Colorado Rapids over a club record deal to sell winger Morgan Whittaker. The shock move comes as the Championship side look to strengthen their squad on deadline day.
Middlesbrough currently sit 5th in the Championship with six points from three games, their recent form reading WLW. They are three points behind leaders Charlton Athletic and have scored six goals while conceding four so far this season. Their next fixture is an away trip to face Burnley on Wednesday, September 2nd.
Who is Morgan Whittaker?
Morgan Whittaker joined Middlesbrough from Plymouth Argyle in January 2025 for a reported fee of between five and six million pounds. The 25-year-old winger signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at the time. His first season on Teesside was a quiet one, making 16 Championship appearances without scoring and registering just one assist during the 2024/25 campaign.
He found his feet in the following season. Whittaker scored his first goal for the club in a 2-1 win over Ipswich Town in October 2025. He went on to net 14 times in 40 Championship appearances during the 2025/26 season, also providing around seven assists as Middlesbrough reached the play-offs.
Why would Middlesbrough sell him now?
With the transfer window closing, Middlesbrough's activity suggests they are aiming to reshape their attacking options. The club had been linked with a move for Liam Millar, but that deal now looks increasingly likely to take the player to Birmingham City instead. Selling Whittaker for a record fee could provide significant funds for a late reinforcement.
Ben Jacobs said: "Middlesbrough are in talks with Colorado Rapids as they look to buy winger Morgan Whittaker, according to Ben Jacobs." West Ham United were also previously said to be keen on the player, but no move to the London Stadium materialised.
What does the squad look like without him?
If Whittaker completes a move to Major League Soccer, it would create a major problem on the wing for manager Michael Carrick. The club does have other options in wide areas. Jeremy Sarmiento provides cover on either flank. Younger prospect Micah Hamilton is considered a fringe player on the left side.
Max Arfsten, who was signed primarily as an attacking left-back, can also operate as a winger. However, losing a player who contributed 21 direct goal involvements last season would be a significant blow to a team with promotion ambitions. You can view the full options available on our squad page.
How does this affect their season?
Middlesbrough's strong start to the season, with two wins from three games, has them well-placed in the early standings. A major sale so close to the deadline risks disrupting squad harmony and attacking output. The immediate focus shifts to their next Championship match away at Burnley, who currently sit 22nd in the table. The fixture list shows a challenging run of games ahead, which you can check on our fixtures page. Morgan Whittaker's contract at the Riverside Stadium runs until the summer of 2029.
