Boro boss: More signings to come

Aug 3 2008 by Steve Brown, Sunday Sun

GARETH SOUTHGATE last night insisted Middlesbrough WILL add further signings to their squad before the transfer window closes . . .

With Swiss international midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta the latest player to be linked to the Teessiders.

James Harper remains Southgate’s top target but nothing has changed since Reading rejected a £3 million bid for their midfield star, who they value at nearer £5 million.

The £3.5m sale of Lee Cattermole was expected to fund a renewed offer for Harper.

But reports now claim that Boro — who have New Zealand international Tony Lochhead on trial — have turned their attention to £4m-rated Barnetta, Bayer Leverkusen’s 23-year- old star.

Either way, Southgate is confident of adding to the acquisitions of Didier Digard and Marvin Emnes, and is understood to be keen to do so prior to the start of the new season.

“I would think we’ll strengthen the squad definitely, there are always options,” he said.