Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick insists Chuba Akpom will remain at the Riverside beyond this month.

In-form striker Akpom has been linked with Premier League clubs Everton, Crystal Palace, and Southampton after a number of impressive displays in the Sky Bet Championship this season.

The Nigerian-born forward has scored 13 goals in 19 league appearances for Boro this season.

Akpom is in the final six months of his contract but Middleborough will no doubt activate the one-year extension

inserted in his contract.

With the Premier League clubs circling around the 27-year-old, Carrick stated that he is not for sale.

“He’s our player." We’re delighted to have Chuba. He’s been terrific since I came through the door, “Carrick was quoted by Teesside Live.

“He’s obviously got his headlines with the goals, but he’s given us a lot more than that." He’s a player we’re delighted to have. "He has 18 months left on his contract.”