MALAURY MARTIN and Bartholomew Ogbeche have been told they can look for new clubs after coming to the end of their contracts at Middlesbrough.

But manager Tony Mowbray has not closed the door completely on either player returning to the Riverside Stadium for next season.

Frenchman Martin and Nigerian Ogbeche are among a number of last season's squad due to become free agents on July 1 and the duo have not been offered new terms.

Neither was a regular first-team performer last term, and Mowbray is keen to assess all of his outside options as he attempts to rebuild his squad for next season.

However, the Boro boss is not completely ruling out a return for the duo, and could meet either for further talks later in the summer if they are unable to agree a deal with new employers.

The pair were both signed following successful trials. Martin arrived first after his release from Blackpool and Ogbeche was without a club when he joined in October.

Both players impressed Mowbray with their attitudes and professionalism, but he is no rush to give them fresh terms while he assesses what other options are available in the transfer market.

Midfield is an area the Middlesbrough manager is particularly keen on strengthening. After the arrival of Grant Leadbitter from Ipswich, Boro are also close to confirming a deal for Emmanuel Ledesma.

There is interest in Bristol Rovers winger Mustapha Carayol and Jacob Butterfield too, among others.

Butterfield's contract is due to expire at Barnsley, who are trying to convince him to commit to a new deal at Oakwell. But the 22-year-old, who has also interested Reading and Newcastle, is likely to secure better terms on Teesside.