Ireland international Shay Given is close to leaving Aston Villa in order to link up with Middlesbrough.

The 39-year-old goalkeeper, who played in last season's FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, spent part of the 2013-14 campaign on loan at Boro.

He made just three Premier League appearances for Villa last season. 

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough have also made a £4M pounds bid for Ireland and Ipswich striker Daryl Murphy.

The 32-year-old was top scorer in last season's Championship with 27 goals.