Boro close to Douala deal

Middlesbrough are on the verge of striking a deal for long-term target Rodolph Douala.

The 27-year-old has been tracked by Boro since he played a major role in their Uefa Cup downfall two seasons ago.

Since then, they have tried numerous times to sign him - the last occasion being August when they successfully managed to sign his team-mate Fabio Rochermback on transfer deadline day.

Now a Boro delegation are believed to have flown to Portugal in order to agree terms on a ‚é¼3 million (£2 million) deal for the Cameroonian winger - who is at home on either flank.

The Teesside outfit are now locked in talks with Douala and Sporting Lisbon - but sources close to the club insist a deal could very well be struck within 48 hours.

Douala has previously stated that a move to England may not be his preferred option - but it seems Boro are highly confident of landing him.

Despite not having a manager, Boro are highly active in player deals at present.

They have just announced George Boateng's new three-year contract - while a deal for Robert Huth is also close to being struck - so they could very well be in a position to announce two new signings by this weekend.