Middlesbrough have announced the signing of former Leeds United full-back Sam Byram on a free transfer. The 32-year-old defender was released by Leeds earlier this summer after completing his second spell with the club. Byram, who can operate on either flank, made 80 appearances for the Whites over the past three seasons, but only five came in the 2025-26 campaign.
Byram was part of the squad that lifted the Championship title in May 2025, helping Leeds secure promotion to the Premier League. He has experience of two promotions in his career and said that his time in the league has taught him what it takes to succeed.
“I've been around this league for a number of years and had a couple of promotions in that time, so I know what it takes,” Byram told the club’s website. “It's an incredibly tough league and a long season, but it's a great squad and great group.”
Middlesbrough’s new signing is the ninth player the club have brought in during the current transfer window. The free transfer means Byram will add depth to the squad’s full-back positions as the club prepares for the 2026-27 Championship season.
Byram’s arrival comes as Boro look to build on a solid foundation after a strong finish to the previous campaign. The club’s recruitment strategy has focused on experienced Championship players who can help maintain consistency and push for promotion.
The former Leeds defender’s versatility, having played both left and right-back, will give manager Michael Carrick additional options across the back line. Byram’s experience of promotion battles is expected to provide leadership and resilience to a squad that will face a demanding schedule in the coming season.
Middlesbrough’s website highlighted Byram’s professionalism and knowledge of the league, noting that his presence should help the team handle the rigours of a long season. The club’s latest signings have already begun to integrate into the squad, with Byram expected to feature in pre-season friendlies and potentially in the opening fixtures of the new campaign.
