Boro clinch Aliadiere swoop
09 Jun 2007 - 12:16:08
Middlesbrough have agreed to sign Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere as manager Gareth Southgate attempts to fill the void created by the departure of Mark Viduka.
The 24-year-old Frenchman will sign for Boro when he returns from holiday after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.
Aliadiere's arrival should help offset the loss of Viduka, who opted to leave Middlesbrough and complete a free transfer switch to local rivals Newcastle United after turning down a new contract at the Riverside.
"We have agreed a fee with Arsenal for Aliadiere and completed a deal with them," Boro's chief executive Keith Lamb told the club's official website.
"Everything is also agreed in principle and his transfer will be completed in the next couple of weeks.
"The only reason the deal hasn't already been completed is that the player is on holiday."
Boro initially tried to land Aliadiere during the January transfer window, but injuries to Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie meant Gunners boss Arsene Wenger opted to keep him at the Emirates Stadium.
Aliadiere had struggled to break into the first-team picture at Arsenal and made just 44 appearances - mostly as a substitute - during eight years at the club.
"He fits perfectly the sort of player Gareth wants to bring to the club," continued Lamb.
"He has pace and energy, and he is young with his best years in front of him."