BRISTOL CITY have confirmed the release of Famara Diedhiou, with Middlesbrough holding a long-standing interest in the striker.

However, at this stage, it is understood that Diedhiou's wage demands would stand in the way of any proposed move to the Riverside.

Boro made a number of inquiries for Diedhiou in January, and there was briefly even talk of a possible swap deal involving Britt Assombalonga, who has subsequently left the Riverside as a free agent.

However, nothing came to fruition and Diedhiou remained at Ashton Gate despite having turned down Bristol City's offer of a new deal.

Boro boss Neil Warnock is hoping to sign up to three new forwards this summer, and Diedhiou is understood to figure prominently on his list of possible targets.

However, the 28-year-old was seeking a hike in his wages during his negotiations with Bristol City and is believed to be hoping to secure an agreement this summer that would be significantly higher than anything Boro were willing to pay.

Clearly, there is scope for negotiation if the Teessiders decide to make a formal move, but at this stage, their interest has not reached an advanced stage.

Diedhiou is one of 12 players to have been released by Bristol City, with Robins boss Nigel Pearson admitting the club are heading into a major period of upheaval.

Pearson said: "I have spoken with each departing player and wish them all well in the next stage of their careers.

“We are entering into a significant transition period for the club and central to that is deciding which players can take this club forward.

“The first element of that is largely done and now it’s about looking forward to who we can bring in as we build towards next season.”