Blues target Hayden Coulson has not been handed a squad number for the season ahead by Middlesbrough.
As previously reported, we understand a deal which will see the 23-year-old left-back move to Town on a season-long loan has been agreed but has been waiting for Boro to bring in left-sided cover with first-choice Marc Bola having been sidelined due to injury and then self-isolation.
Manager Neil Warnock says Bola could be involved in tomorrow’s campaign opener at Fulham despite his lack of involvement in pre-season.
"Boles is going to train this morning. But he’s not played any minutes this summer so it’s asking a lot,” he told Teesside Live. "You don’t know with Boles though, we’ll just have to play it by ear. He’s a genuine lad.”
Warnock revealed that Coulson is also now self-isolating, however, we understand the deal is likely to finally go through at the start of next week.
Speaking this morning, Town boss Paul Cook said he was expecting to sign three players before Monday with Portsmouth winger Michael Jacobs and Aston Villa striker or winger Louie Barry at the club today to complete permanent and loan moves respectively.
Coulson appeared the obvious third man but with Sone Aluko having emerged as that player.
"He’s in self-isolation and will miss the weekend,” Warnock added. "We’ve had a few sniffs with the virus this summer. We’re still getting tested every day.”