It was reported in February that Middlesbrough were interested in Daniel Karlsbakk, but a deal did not happen. Middlesbrough may renew their interest in Karlsbakk and compete with Stoke City for his services. Kim Hellberg will be closely monitoring Stoke's progression in a deal for the player.

Middlesbrough are pursuing a summer transfer for Sarpsborg 08 player Daniel Karlsbakk, a 22-year-old Norwegian, and have identified him as their top transfer target. The Norwegian side is asking for a fee of approximately €8m - €10m (£7m - £9m) for the striker, who scored 18 league goals last season. Sheffield United are also interested in signing the centre-forward, and a summer move is considered to be inevitable. It is reported that both Championship clubs are willing to meet Sarpsborg's asking price. Karlsbakk has 10 caps and one goal for Norway U21. He joined Sarpsborg in January 2025, and his contract runs until the end of 2028. Transfermarkt lists his current market value as €5.00m. In February 2026, reports claimed a transfer for Karlsbakk to Trabzonspor for €9 million failed late on deadline day.