“Divide opinion”: Divergent opinions over Danny Ings’ potential signing with Middlesbrough

Our fan panel discusses Middlesbrough’s negotiations to sign Danny Ings.

 

 

In a surprise move, Middlesbrough has begun talks to sign Danny Ings this summer on a free transfer.

After leaving West Ham when his contract ended, Ings, who turns 33 this month, is available on a free transfer. Although Boro has had great conversations with Ings and his advisors over a possible move to the Riverside, it is rumored that Ings has other Championship options.

Given that Boro’s transfer philosophy prefers younger recruits, many people are taken aback by the statement. To help Rob Edwards in his first season as manager, Ings is thought to be a potentially great addition both on and off the field. The signing of the former England international has caused controversy because Ings has struggled in his two and a half years at West Ham.

We asked our Boro fan base what they thought about Boro possibly acquiring the seasoned striker. Twe12th Man member John Donovan, Boropolis co-founder Chris Cassidy, and YouTube specialist Phil Spencer are on this week’s Boro fan panel.

 

John Donovan

Opinions would surely differ on the intriguing relationship with Danny Ings. Although I can understand why some supporters would like him to join the Boro assault, I oppose it. Undoubtedly, he possesses an abundance of experience, especially in the Premier League, and he may be the guy we need to keep up a lead or close a game.

Perhaps I still have the sorrow and limited influence of Kelechi Iheanacho. However, I felt that as a team, we had outgrown the practice of acquiring aging players who were nearing the end of their careers and had no market value. Although I’m sure Danny Ings would make a far bigger effect than Iheanacho, I wouldn’t seek a contract with him. I hope he pushes my doubts down my throat if he shows up.

Phil Spencer

At the right price, I think it would be wise to sign Danny Ings. In addition to desperately needing a striker, Middlesbrough also needs crucial experience, which the 32-year-old would supply. Positively, he has an exceptional goal-scoring record and would undoubtedly make a substantial contribution on and off the field.

However, since we need someone who will be available to us on a regular basis, I can appreciate those who are worried about his recent injury history. This transaction ultimately comes down to money at that point.

Although a free transfer would be ideal, I anticipate that Ings would look for high compensation, placing him among the club’s highest earners. If he is healthy and ready to play, that’s great, but if he will only play 10 to 15 games every season, we must make a wise choice.

Perhaps the wisest course of action would be to bring him in and sign another striker to support us in the event of injury. I have faith that our recruitment team will consider the options.

Chris Cassidy

I was really unprepared for the attention in Danny Ings. I thought the salary he would demand would make it completely unfeasible, even before taking into account his history of injuries or lack of playing time in recent years. However, the fact that the interest has been verified suggests that his wage aspirations are probably not wholly out of the question.

The allegation has generated a lot of skepticism because of Ings’ lack of football expertise in previous seasons. Many fans, who are naturally unhappy with his performances, have likened the interest to Boro’s acquisition of Kelechi Iheanacho in January. I’m not positive, though, that the two are comparable. I would describe Ings as more of a natural striker.

I think his positioning knowledge and finishing skill would transfer to most levels even with the lack of speed. Since his big-money move to Aston Villa, his numbers have definitely declined, but I think he would have a much easier time in the Championship.

The action does show that Boro’s hiring practices have somewhat shifted this summer, which I don’t entirely disagree with. While Callum Brittain and Alfie Jones are in the prime of their professions and with a plethora of experience, Ings is in his thirties.

Perhaps the club is trying to offset that with some more seasoned pros, as Boro were repeatedly called naive pushovers last season.