Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has stepped up his efforts to sign former Celtic defender Bobo Balde after reports have suggested that Stoke want their German defender Robert Huth. Balde served Celtic with great distinction for over eight years from 2001-2009 before being released by the Glasgow club.
After being released, a lot of club have shown interest in the Guinea international. Balde had a trial with Premier League sides Wolves and Birmingham but failed to secure a contract at either club. With doubt over the future of Wheater and Huth, Boro seems the likely destination. French second division club RC Strasbourg have been the latest club to be linked with Balde.
Meanwhile, Stoke City are ready to bolster their defence by swooping for £4m signing of Robert Huth. Although the transfer fee might have been agreed, the wages earned by Huth at Boro would be difficult for Stoke to match and it would be interesting to see if he takes a pay cut to go to the Premier League side.
Boro are also looking to offload stiker Afonso Alves and are looking to sign out of contract striker Danny Webber.
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