With Hayden Hackney reportedly having departed for Everton, Berhalter could have an opening to establish himself alongside Aidan Morris. The report highlights his set-piece ability and willingness to compete physically-useful qualities in a league where midfielders are tested in tight spaces and second-ball contests.
But filling a vacancy is not the same as owning the role. Berhalter would need to bring consistency and composure to a team that, under Hellberg, is described as playing on the front foot. His first challenge may be to show he can keep the midfield balanced while still helping drive attacks.
Arfsten appears to have a clearer route into a system built around three centre-backs, where he could provide width and attacking thrust from the flank. The report also flags defensive work as an area to watch. That trade-off could matter: Middlesbrough may welcome his forward threat, but the role demands discipline when possession turns over.
The potential debut against Wrexham offers an early glimpse, not a final verdict. If either newcomer features, the next step will be turning a promising fit on paper into a dependable contribution as Middlesbrough’s promotion push gathers pace.