Middlesbrough are jumping ahead of Stoke City in the race for New York City FC midfielder Jack Harrison.

The Daily Star says the England Under-21s international is also wanted by Newcastle and hometown club Stoke.

There has been talk of Harrison, 21, leaving the Big Apple on loan, prior to a permanent move.

But the MLS club are understood to be prepared to do a cash deal now.

And Boro boss Tony Pulis is hoping to clinch a deal – for around £6m – to take the youngster to Teesside.