WANDERERS’ chances of landing Lukas Jutkiewicz next season may have been given a boost after Middlesbrough launched a move for Dougie Freedman’s former boot boy.

Several reports yesterday claimed Boro boss Aitor Karanka has made a bid for Bournemouth striker Lewis Grabban – a former team-mate of the Whites boss.

The Spaniard is looking to bolster his strikeforce next season and his pursuit of the 22-goal ex-Crystal Palace trainee could force Jutkiewicz closer to the exit door at the Riverside.

Reports claim Grabban has a £3million release clause in his contract, and other clubs are also monitoring his situation.

Karanka has said he wants to talk with Jutkiewicz before deciding on his future but sources close to the player say he has resigned himself to leaving Boro, ideally for Bolton.

The 24-year-old, dubbed “The Juke” by Bolton fans, scored seven goals in a successful loan spell that started in January.