Steve Cooper has emerged as a potential candidate for the managerial role at Middlesbrough, following his dismissal from Leicester City in November 2024.
Cooper was let go by the Foxes after a disappointing run of just two wins in 12 Premier League matches.
Since then, Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken the reins at the King Power Stadium, but his tenure has also been far from smooth, with Leicester now teetering on the brink of relegation to the Championship. Should the Foxes drop down, they could find themselves competing against their former manager next season.
This development comes amid reports linking Cooper to the Middlesbrough job, as current boss Michael Carrick struggles to turn around the team’s fortunes. Boro have endured a dismal run of form, slipping to 11th in the Championship table.
Steve Cooper could poach Leicester City gem
While Middlesbrough are sticking with Carrick for now, owner Steve Gibson may be forced to consider a change if results don’t improve soon. Cooper is reportedly among the names being considered for the role at the Riverside Stadium.
If appointed, Cooper could look to his former club Leicester to bolster Middlesbrough’s squad in the 2025 summer transfer window. Central midfield is currently one of Boro’s weakest areas, with Jonny Howson likely in the final year of his career and Dan Barlaser failing to meet expectations.
Cooper might target Michael Golding, a player he brought to Leicester from Chelsea last year in a deal worth around £4 million, according to BBC Sport.
Why Michael Golding could be open to leaving Leicester City:
The young midfielder joined Leicester with high hopes, expressing his excitement about taking significant strides in his career. However, Golding has yet to make his senior debut or even secure a spot on the bench for a Premier League match.
If his lack of opportunities persists, Golding could be open to a move away from Leicester in the summer transfer window, potentially reuniting with Cooper at Middlesbrough should the manager make the switch to the North East.
