**Middlesbrough Closing in on £6m Deal for Plymouth Argyle Forward Morgan Whittaker**
Plymouth Argyle forward Morgan Whittaker is on the verge of sealing a £6m move to Championship competitors Middlesbrough. According to BBC Radio Tees, Whittaker, 24, is currently undergoing a medical examination in preparation for a permanent transfer to The Riverside.
**Record-Breaking Transfer Deal**
Sources disclosed to BBC Sport that Plymouth has agreed to a £6m offer, including £2m in add-ons, which surpasses the club’s prior record transfer earnings. Whittaker became a record signing for Argyle in 2023 when he arrived from Swansea City for £1m following a successful loan stint.
The talented forward was recognized last year with a spot in the Championship Team of the Season after netting 20 goals in 50 matches. However, his scoring output has dwindled this season to just four goals as Plymouth struggles at the bottom of the Championship table.
**Whittaker’s Recent Controversy**
Whittaker’s absence from Plymouth’s recent 5-0 defeat to Burnley raised eyebrows after head coach Miron Muslic revealed that the player had failed to arrive on time for the game despite being included in the starting lineup. Consequently, Whittaker had to watch the match from the stands.
**Negotiations and Previous Partnerships**
Both Middlesbrough and Burnley have been actively pursuing Whittaker, with Burnley’s £5m bid with add-ons rejected earlier in the week. The potential transfer would reunite Whittaker with midfielder Finn Azaz, with whom he formed a successful partnership in the previous season.
**Whittaker’s Impact and Plymouth’s Dilemma**
Whittaker’s departure from Plymouth was anticipated following his recent behavior, but his significant contributions to the team cannot be overlooked. Since joining the club in 2022, he has scored 34 goals, showcasing his prowess in front of goal.
However, as Plymouth contemplates how to utilize the funds from this record-breaking deal, the club faces a critical decision. Should they invest now to salvage their current season, or should they hold onto the money to rebuild in League One next year? The future of Plymouth Argyle hangs in the balance as they navigate this pivotal moment.
**What do you think Plymouth should do with the money from Whittaker’s transfer – invest now or save for next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!**