Arca beckons Harper to Boro

Argentine believes midfielder would shine on Teesside

By James Dall   Last updated: 24th July 2008

James Harper celeb Middlesbrough v Reading

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Middlesbrough midfielder Julio Arca believes Reading's James Harper would prove a sound addition at the Riverside Stadium.

Harper, 27, has been linked with a return to the top flight following The Royals' relegation last season.

It has been rumoured that Boro and Bolton Wanderers are considering offers, although an official approach has yet to be confirmed.

However, fresh speculation of a bid from Gareth Southgate's side has emerged after Wigan Athletic agreed a fee with Boro for midfielder Lee Cattermole.

And Arca believes Harper, who joined Reading from Arsenal in 2001, would add experience and depth to the squad ahead of the new season.

Young team

"I'm 27 and Luke Young is 28, we are the oldest in the team right now," said Arca in The Northern Echo.

"That shows you how young the team is. We are trying to help the young players. The manager maybe is looking to bring a couple more experienced players in, we will see.

"James Harper has been mentioned and, although he is relatively young, like myself, he has plenty experience.

"We do have plenty midfielders, we have options and hopefully everyone will stay fit and we can start well, but there could still be another new face or two to come."