AITOR KARANKA is keeping his options open ahead of next month’s transfer window after learning he faces competition from the Premier League for Patrick Bamford.

The Boro boss has made no secret of his admiration for the 22-year-old and has hinted on more than one occasion that the door has remained open for a return to the Riverside Stadium.

And while that remains the case following Bamford’s decision to end his unsuccessful season-long loan at Crystal Palace early, the Chelsea forward is aware of other interested clubs.

Swansea City and Norwich City are being kept informed about his situation, while both Newcastle and Sunderland have been credited with an interest in the past.

But Bournemouth are also thought to be keeping an eye on things as manager Eddie Howe plots a way to strengthen his options in attack following a string of injuries.

Bamford admitted after his final appearance for the Eagles – a goalless draw with Swansea – that he would prefer to stay in the Premier League but he is prepared to consider all offers.

That has left Boro in with a chance of persuading him to head back to Teesside, where he scored 19 goals last season to boost the push to the play-off final at Wembley. Bamford, expected to leave Chelsea on loan until the summer, is one of a number of forwards the Middlesbrough boss is keen on.

Bolton midfielder Mark Davies is also on Boro's radar ahead of the opening of the transfer window on January 2.