The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word CENTRING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
E
N
T
R
I
N
G
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "In the middle, putting" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case in the middle, putting = centring.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CENTRING mean?
CENTRING verb- To cause (an object) to occupy the center of an area.
- To cause (some attribute, such as a mood or voltage) to be adjusted to a value which is midway between the extremes.
- To give (something) a central basis.
- To concentrate on (something), to pay close attention to (something).
- To form a recess or indentation for the reception of a center.
- A type of formwork which serves as a temporary structure during the construction of arches and bridges.
- The process of moving something to a centre, normally before some other process.