Middlesbrough FC transfer rumours: Cardiff reportedly closing in on Aston Villa man plus Jack Clarke reacts to Stoke City move

Reported Middlesbrough target Frederic Guilbert is said to be in advanced talks with Cardiff.
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It was claimed earlier this week the Aston Villa defender is attracting interest from a number of Championship clubs including Cardiff, Boro and Bristol City.

The 26-year-old has made just two appearances for Villa in the EFL Cup this season after falling down the pecking order at Villa Park.

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And according to Football Insider, Cardiff are now closing in on the signature of the right-back on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Middlesbrough have been linked with Aston Villa defender Frederic Guilbert.Middlesbrough have been linked with Aston Villa defender Frederic Guilbert.
Middlesbrough have been linked with Aston Villa defender Frederic Guilbert.

Clarke reacts to Stoke move

Another player who was linked with a loan move to Boro was Tottenham’s Jack Clarke, yet the 20-year-old winger has moved to Stoke instead.

Before the move was completed, Boro boss Neil Warnock cooled speculation the Teessiders were interested in Clarke, who was a reported target for several Championship clubs.

Speaking to Stoke’s website, Clarke said: “I think with the plan Tottenham had in place they wanted me to come and get some first-team football.

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“After speaking to Michael (O’Neill) and speaking to his team around him, obviously Stoke is a big club, and it was a no-brainer really.”

Diedhiou latest

Finally, Bristol City are still hopeful they can keep striker Famara Diedhiou this month.

The 28-year-old will be out of contract at the end of the season and it’s been claimed that Boro are tracking the forward.

According to Bristol Live, the Robins aren’t interested in Crystal Palace striker Connor Wickham, despite recent reports, and are still optimistic that Diedhiou will sign a new deal.

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