Pogatetz is out of contract at the end of the season and was targeted by the Greek league leaders during the January transfer window.
But with Boro boss Gordon Strachan reluctant to move the Austrian on at that stage for less than £1.5m, Panathinaikos accepted defeat in their pursuit.
However, their interest in Pogatetz has never waned after representatives of the two parties discussed the possibility of reaching a pre-contract agreement at the start of the year.
But with Middlesbrough's hopes of closing the sevenpoint gap to the play-offs fading with six matches remaining, Panathinaikos are optimistic of landing their man.
Strachan has accepted a summer of change is on the horizon, particularly with a number of contracts due to expire.
It emerged that Celtic's caretaker boss Neil Lennon wants to take Stephen Mc- Manus back to Parkhead at the end of his loan.
And with two years remaining on his deal in Glasgow, it will be difficult to convince McManus to stay south of the border if his beloved club come calling again.
Strachan, though, hopes the players he has at his disposal will lead a late surge for the play-offs, having shown more resilience in recent months.
One defeat from their last seven matches might not have propelled Middlesbrough back in to the top six, but there has been a growing belief in the stands that longterm fortunes will improve under the Scot.
And full-back Andrew Taylor, who revealed last week that he might have to consider his future, feels the Strachan way is taking hold.
He said: He now has a good understanding of all the lads. It was difficult when he started here, we didn't know him and he doesn't know us so you aren't quite sure where you stand.
Everyone was desperate to impress him but I was injured, it's the last thing you want. In a way I've been playing catch up since then. But anyone who knows me will say I never give up.
The gaffer's brought in a lot of players he already knew but I think the rest of us have been given a fair crack of the whip.
Only the manager knows if he favours someone over you. All I can do is give my best and hopefully it will be enough to impress him.
Source: Northern Echo
Source: Northern Echo