Blackpool open discussions over left-sided reinforcement
Blackpool have been linked with a move for Middlesbrough wing-back Finley Munroe, with talks understood to have taken place between the two clubs over a potential season-long loan. The 21-year-old, who joined Boro in January, is seen as a candidate to add depth and competition on the left at Bloomfield Road.
Munroe’s arrival on Teesside midway through last season brought limited opportunities; he made three senior appearances during the run-in. A temporary switch to League One would offer the defender regular football, while giving Blackpool additional options on a flank where flexibility will matter across a long campaign.
Who is Finley Munroe?
Munroe came through the academies at both Chelsea and Aston Villa, progressing to two senior outings with Villa. His first-team debut arrived in May 2024 in a UEFA Europa Conference League tie against Olympiacos. Seeking experience, Villa sent him to Spain at the start of the following season, where he featured consistently for Real Unión, before a productive stint in the EFL with Swindon Town.
At Swindon, Munroe worked under former Blackpool manager Ian Holloway — the coach who oversaw Blackpool’s rise to the Premier League in 2010, a side that included current head coach Ian Evatt. Munroe’s output in League Two suggested a forward-thinking wing-back profile, contributing goals and assists across half a campaign prior to his recall in January to facilitate a permanent move to Middlesbrough.
Career snapshot and recent returns
The defender’s recent trajectory reflects steady exposure to senior football in differing environments. His appearances and contributions, as set out below, indicate a player accustomed to operating high on the left with end product:
| Club | Season span | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Unión (loan) | 2024/25 | 24 | 1 | 3 |
| Swindon Town (loan) | 2025/26 (first half) | 27 | 2 | 9 |
| Middlesbrough | 2025/26 (second half) | 3 | 0 | 0 |
Those figures underline why Munroe is being considered to strengthen the left flank. His work at Swindon in particular — across 27 appearances — points to consistent attacking output from deep, while his time in Spain provided senior minutes in a different competitive setting.
What a deal would mean for Blackpool
Blackpool’s interest is geared towards increasing competition on the left. A season-long arrangement would allow the club to test Munroe at League One level without a long-term commitment, while providing him with the platform for regular minutes. For the player, the move would represent a chance to build on the momentum he found with Swindon before stepping up to the Championship in January.
From a squad-building perspective, recruiting a young, attack-minded full-back or wing-back offers tactical flexibility across a congested schedule. With the new season approaching, depth in wide areas is often decisive, especially for sides seeking consistency over the course of 46 league fixtures and cup commitments.
Recent context and next steps
Munroe’s recall to Villa in January to enable a permanent transfer to Middlesbrough curtailed his Swindon loan after a strong six months. Having since found limited opportunities at the Riverside, a fresh temporary move is now being explored. At this stage, discussions have been reported between the clubs regarding a loan for the 2026/27 campaign.
Blackpool have also flagged to supporters that season tickets for 2026/27 are on sale. For fans tracking recruitment, Munroe’s potential arrival would be one of the early defensive additions aimed at balancing the side for the new term. Any agreement would be subject to the usual processes and formal confirmation by the respective clubs.
Supporters’ takeaways
- Blackpool are in talks with Middlesbrough over a loan for Finley Munroe to bolster the left side.
- Munroe’s recent loans produced a combined 3 goals and 12 assists across Real Unión and Swindon.
- The move would add depth ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with season tickets currently available.
Blackpool and Middlesbrough have not publicly announced a deal at the time of writing. Further updates are expected if negotiations progress.
