Football: Boro chairman to meet Juninho

Middlesbrough are willing to let Juninho leave for a year on loan to avoid the consequences of relegation, but interest in a permanent move for the Brazilian is headed by Atletico Madrid. Steve Gibson, Boro's chairman, will have talks with the midfielder after today's FA Cup final to discuss the options.

Atletico and Valencia head the queue for the midfielder with the former club, who made a tentative approach two months ago, believed to willing to pay up to pounds 15m.

Juninho, who has scored 15 goals this season, has been omitted from the Brazilian squad for the Tournoi de France and his place is also at risk for the Copa America next month. Juninho believes he has to move if he is to reclaim his place in the national squad, which he feels he cannot do playing for Middlesbrough against the likes of Bury and Bradford City in the Nationwide League First Division next season.

The loan idea would rule out a move to Manchester United or Newcastle, as players who are here on a work permit are not allowed to join British clubs on a temporary basis.