The MLS side swiftly rejected Boro’s opening bid, believed to be in the region of £2.25m, last week and have made it clear they’re determined to keep the 24-year-old this summer.
But the Northern Echo understands Arfsten wants to move to Boro and has made his feelings known to his current club.
What’s not clear at this stage is whether Arfsten’s desire to move will alter Columbus Crew’s stance, but Boro are likely to return with an improved offer at some stage. Arfsten is their leading target at left wing-back, an area identified as a priority to strengthen between now and the transfer deadline.
Boro have already strengthened at right wing-back with Callum Brittain, their leading target in that position arriving at the start of this week, but are without a fit natural left wing-back ahead of Saturday’s Championship opener against Swansea City.
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Boss Rob Edwards sees Neto Borges as a left sided central defender and Alex Bangura is currently sidelined having picked up an injury in pre-season. Sammy Silvera has impressed Edwards at left wing-back in pre-season and is set to start against Swansea, though the head coach admits the Australian is not a natural fit in that area. Silvera has, however, played his way into Edwards’ plans for the coming season having looked likely to leave the club at the start of the summer on the back of two failed loan moves last term.
Arfsten has long been on Boro’s radar, with the defender first impressing the club’s recruitment team when they were scouting Aidan Morris.
The USA international is seen as an ideal fit for Edwards’ style of play at Boro, with the attacking wing-back having scored four goals and provided three assists in 20 MLS appearances this season.
Only last night he scored the winner for Columbus Crew in their 1-0 victory over Leon in the Leagues Cup, his second goal in just three appearances in that competition this season.
Boro aren’t the only club to have shown an interest in Arfsten this summer, with Toulouse having seen a bid knocked back last month.
Arfsten has also caught the eye on the international stage, playing his way into the United States squad. He’ll be desperate to continue to impress boss Mauricio Pochettino ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
As well as looking to strengthen at left-back, Boro are prioritising the signing of a centre-forward ahead of the end of the summer window, with Tommy Conway in need of cover and competition.
