Middlesbrough have made an official approach for Juventus midfielder Stephen Appiah. They are hoping to add the 24-year-old to their squad this summer, with the Ghanaian having struggled to break into Juve's side this season.
Appiah has spent the last eight years in Italy, with Juve, Udinese and Parma.
"He's somebody we have an interest in and if we can do anything there then we will," Boro chief executive Keith Lamb told the club's website.
"Juventus are aware of our interest but he's just one of a number of players on the manager's list."
It is understood Boro, who booked a place in the Uefa Cup on the last day of the Premiership season, may try to sign Appiah on a season-long loan deal. Boro have almost closed out a deal for Portsmouth forward Aiyegbeni Yakubu, while they are also hopeful that Boudewijn Zenden will sign a new contract at the Riverside.
Veteran centre-back Colin Cooper committed himself to a further 12 months at the club, while negotiations continue with regards to a new deal for boss Steve McClaren.
Doriva is to be offered a new one-year contract this week and talks are continuing over a fresh deal for George Boateng.
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I think Appiah's a decent player but it may lead the way for Zenden to leave
Match of the Day - Post-match interviews