Michael Carrick is unlikely to make his first entry into management with Middlesbrough after speaking to the club.
It is understood the former Manchester United and England midfielder is not keen on the role at this time.
That leaves Boro searching for a successor to Chris Wilder, who was sacked last week.
They have already spoken to former Watford boss Rob Edwards, who is said to be the preferred candidate of head of football Kieran Scott.
Edwards remains in the frame and sources say Lee Cattermole - the youth coach currently part of the interim management team - has admirers among the hierarchy should they decide to make an internal appointment for the time being.