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Johnson plea could scupper Boro
Middlesbrough, 11:36, January 29, 2010 ,
Winger Adam Johnson reportedly wants to speak to Manchester City despite Middlesbrough insisting he is staying put until the summer.
The highly-rated 22-year-old former England Under-21 international has been attracting interest from several top-flight clubs during this transfer window. And, while Boro boss Gordon Strachan confirmed that they have had 'verbal offers' for Johnson, he also stressed that he wants to keep the player at the Riverside for the rest of this season when he will then fall out of contract.
However, following claims that City are willing to pay £5million for Johnson's services to have him now, it is being reported that Johnson would like a chance to speak to Eastlands officials before Monday's 5pm deadline.
Boro will look to dig their heels in to keep the 12-goal star man, despite running the risk of picking up a lot less in compensation if and when Johnson departs in the summer. However a possible deal could be struck which would see Johnson sign for City now, but remain with Boro on loan until the end of the season.