MIDDLESBROUGH last night received encouragement in their pursuit of Derby County striker Malcolm Christie when Bolton Wanderers dropped out of the chase.

As revealed in Northern Echo Sport yesterday, Bolton manager Sam Allardyce asked about Christie this week.

But Allardyce has now revealed he has been priced out of the running - further confirmation of cash-strapped Derby's determination to rake in a fee for 23-year-old Christie.

Boro want Christie and Derby defender Chris Riggott on three-month loan deals with a view to permanent moves in the summer.

Deep-in-debt Leeds are also interested in Christie but appear to be hamstrung until they raise transfer funds.

Ironically, their best hope is through the proposed £4m sale of midfielder Seth Johnson to Boro.

Leeds also stand to net £10m if they agree to off-load Middlesbrough-born defender Jonathan Woodgate to Newcastle.

Allardyce, facing the possible loss of transfer-seeking Michael Ricketts, is searching for a striker to boost his side's relegation struggle.

He said of Christie: "We are interested in the player. He's a player we have admired for a long time, but we haven't the funds to bring him here.''

With the closure of the transfer window only a week away, Boro were yesterday still trying to tie up the signing of Johnson.

Talks over personal terms have lasted nearly all week, but it is understood the 23-year-old England international has already undergone part of his medical.

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