Norwich City talisman Wes Hoolahan is not in line for a Middlesbrough switch - with the Teesiders tracking Birmingham outcast Gary McSheffrey if wideman Adam Johnson leaves in the transfer window.

Norwich City talisman Wes Hoolahan is not in line for a Middlesbrough switch - with the Teesiders tracking Birmingham outcast Gary McSheffrey if wideman Adam Johnson leaves in the transfer window. City's creative spark was linked with Gordon Strachan's Championship outfit over the weekend as a potential replacement for the highly-rated Johnson.

North East rivals Sunderland are reportedly ready to offer Johnson a top flight return following Boro's relegation last season but Strachan has prioritised a targetman in the New Year sales.

Rangers hot-shot Kris Boyd and one time Norwich loanee Chris Killen have both been linked with a Riverside switch with Strachan also set to tie up deals for Celtic duo Barry Robson and Gary Caldwell.

Norwich boss Paul Lambert along with the City hierarchy reiterated only last week the club does not have to sell, despite announcing a record �23m debt in the latest set of accounts.

Lambert emphasised the point by drafting in four new permanent signings ahead of Saturday's League One win over Exeter. The Canaries chief would resist any overtures to cash in on his Irishman, who has won rave reviews this season at the point of a midfield diamond.

Should Boro be forced into the market to replace Johnson, Strachan is a confirmed admirer of wantaway McSheffrey.

Millwall chief Kenny Jackett is the latest manager to rule out a move for Canaries striker Jamie Cureton.

The 34-year-old had previously been linked with both Lincoln and Cheltenham after being limited to eight appearances under Lambert this season and being frozen out of the first team picture completely in recent months.