Middlesbrough are reportedly preparing a bid for Stephen Appiah. The Ghanaian international has struggled to hold down a first-team place at Juventus and Coach Fabio Capello is prepared to let him leave. There are reports that the former Parma midfielder could be arriving on Teesside today to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.

The Bianconeri are looking for around ?5m for the 24-year-old, but Middlesbrough are thought to be keen to sign him on loan for the season, though they face competition from Birmingham and Everton for his services.