MIDDLESBROUGH will move onto other attacking targets after deciding not to pursue their interest in Leicester City’s David Nugent.

Reports yesterday suggested that Boro were one of a host of clubs, including Premier League trio West Ham, Hull and Swansea, to offer the striker a fresh start.

Nugent’s current contract at the Kingpower Stadium is set to expire at the end of this month, but while Boro did consider making a move for the striker, the Northern Echo understands the Teessiders decided not to make a concrete offer to bring him to the Riverside Stadium.

Instead, the 29-year-old is likely to sign a new deal with Premier League newcomers Leicester, having played a big part in their Championship title winning campaign.

Nugent scored 20 goals to help the Foxes regain their top flight status and while a new deal has yet to be agreed, boss Nigel Pearson is keen to keep him at the club.

Karanka is in the market for a couple of strikers with Marvin Emnes and Lukas Jutkiewicz both expected to move on, while Kei Kamara’s future is also uncertain.

The Boro boss has already missed out on Lewis Grabban and Adam Le Fondre, who joined Norwich and Cardiff respectively, while question marks also remain over his chances of landing Danny Graham again.

Boro have also played down reports linking Newcastle winger Sammy Ameobi with a return to the Riverside.

Middlesbrough were handed an away tie in the Capital One Cup first round draw yesterday.

Karanka’s side will travel to Boundary Park to face League One outfit Oldham Athletic with ties to be played the week commencing August 11.

Hartlepool have also been handed an away trip and will play Port Vale for a place in the second round.

Meanwhile, Boro winger Albert Adomah made his World Cup debut on Monday night, coming on as a 78th minute substitute in Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to the USA.