Juninho going back to 'Boro

Juninho has agreed to sign a four-year contract with Middlesbrough subject to a medical and work permit.

The Premiership outfit have been locked in talks with the 29-year-old after agreeing a £6m (€9.46m) fee with his Spanish club Athletico Madrid earlier this month.

And following protracted negotiations, Middlesbrough announced they had finally come to an agreement with the midfielder.

A statement on the club’s official website, www.mfc.co.uk, read: ‘‘Middlesbrough Football Club are delighted to announce that last night they agreed personal terms with Juninho having already agreed a fee with Athletico Madrid.

‘‘The club has agreed a four-year contract, subject to the player passing a medical and obtaining a work permit from the Department of Employment.

‘‘The Brazilian international is due to link up with his new team-mates week commencing August 5 and it is hoped that he will make his debut in the pre-season friendly against Alaves on Wednesday, August 7.’’