Middlesbrough have played down claims of an imminent deal with Sunderland over winger Adam Johnson.

Sunderland-born Johnson, who will be able to talk to other clubs in January, has attracted the attention of a series of suitors - with the Black Cats and Everton among those said to have run the rule over him.

Boro chief executive Keith Lamb said: "We have had no approach from Sunderland, nor would we welcome one.

"Adam is a Middlesbrough player and we want him to stay."