Middlesbrough transfer news: Boro interest in Robin van Persie cools as Victor Valdes move nears completion

The newly-promoted Premier League side have been linked to the two former Manchester United players

Robin van Persie in action for Fenerbahce (Getty)

Middlesbrough have been linked to former Manchester United and Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.

The newly-promoted side are looking to strengthen their squad as they seek to maintain their Premier League status and are actively looking for a new forward.

Numerous reports have suggested that Van Persie had emerged as a target for Middlesborough after Fenerbahce revealed that they would consider offers for the 32-year-old.

The Dutchman scored 16 goals in his debut season at the Turkish side but has struggled to settle at the club and is already looking for a move away.

However, it remains to be seen whether manager Aitor Karanka is likely to pursue the striker.

Although it seems there has been communication between Boro and Van Persie’s representatives, the Guardian has suggested that Karanka is looking elsewhere for his new striker.

While the rumours surrounding Van Persie may be somewhat unfounded, Middlesbrough’s pursuit of former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes appears to be nearing completion.

According to the Guardian, the club are sufficiently confident of signing the 34-year-old to have booked a medical on Thursday for the keeper.

Victor Valdes struggled to make an impression at Old Trafford (Getty)

Valdes became a free agent after Manchester United released him this summer and despite facing competition from Sporting Lisbon and Besiktas, Karanka is optimistic that Boro can close the deal on their man.

The Spaniard is keen to remain in the Premier League after falling out of favour at United under former manager Louis van Gaal where after he was loaned to Standard Liege.

Karanka’s current first-choice keeper is Dimi Konstantopoulos, with Tomas Mejias providing cover, but the Spanish manager has yet to have made it clear whether Valdes would be immediately promoted ahead of the two were he to join Boro.