Cattermole has been given permission to hold talks with Wigan and undergo a medical after Middlesbrough accepted an undisclosed offer from their Barclays Premier League rivals.

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The Teessiders do not expect Cattermole to move on before the end of the week, however after Southgate admitted he must sell before buying again it would suit Boro if the deal went through without further delay.

A spokesman for Middlesbrough said: "Boro have confirmed that they have agreed a fee with Wigan Athletic for the transfer of Lee Cattermole.

"The 20-year-old midfielder has been given permission to talk to Wigan, discuss personal terms and have a medical.

"No further news is expected until next week."

Cattermole was withdrawn from the Boro squad ahead of last night's 1-1 draw with Celtic in Portugal after Wigan tabled their improved offer.

Southgate admitted Cattermole was "not in the right frame of mind to play" in the pre-season game.

It is understood Wigan have offered around £3.5million for the England Under-21 international.

Stockton-born Cattermole emerged as a precocious teenager in January 2006 when he made his first senior start in a 2-2 derby draw at Newcastle.

He was used as a substitute in the UEFA Cup final later that season in what was Steve McClaren's last game in charge, but has struggled to establish himself in the team under his successor.

With Julio Arca, Fabio Rochemback and George Boateng also vying for central midfield berths last season, Cattermole found himself at times playing out of position.

Of his 28 appearances last season, 14 were made from the bench, and with the arrival of Didier Digard and Marvin Emnes this summer, it appeared his opportunities would be even more limited.

Should the player agree to move, the deal would represent another success for the club's academy which brought the local youngster through the ranks.