Middlesbrough are reportedly looking to re-sign Patrick Bamford should his Crystal Palace loan spell come to an early end.

The Chelsea forward, who spent last season at the Riverside, has made just three league appearances for the Eagles since joining in the summer.

A lack of playing time forced the 22-year-old to speak out last week, admitting that his step up from the Championship to the Premier League has been "frustrating" so far.

Bamford also revealed that he has a clause in his Palace contract to end his loan deal early should he wish, which could open the door for a return to the North-East.

According to the Daily Mail, Boro are already plotting a move for the man who scored 19 goals at the club last season.

It is claimed that Boro missed out on signing Bamford during the summer transfer window, with Chelsea at the time keen to integrate him into top-flight football, but the Blues may now be open to sending him back to the Championship for further playing time.