Neil Warnock reacts to Martin Payero and Rodrigo Muniz reports as Middlesbrough eye South America deals

Payero, 22, is away with the Argentina national team at the Olympics in Tokyo but has spoken to Warnock about a move to the Riverside.

When asked about the midfielder following Boro’s pre-season defeat at York City, Warnock said: “He’s not a Middlesbrough player yet, not as far as I’m aware, although I think it is all done with regard to contracts.

"I think it’s just financial things that are still to get sorted, although it’s all so complicated. I’ve spoken to the player, and the player’s really looking forward to it. I can’t really do any more than that. I’ve done all I can do, it’s just a case of finalising things now.”

Boro have also been looking at other players in South America and been heavily linked with Flamengo striker Rodrigo Muniz.

Reports over the weekend claimed that Boro chief executive Neil Bausor had left the country to speak with the player’s representatives.

When asked about the Muniz link, Warnock replied: “I’ve watched a few players in the last few weeks, and we are looking.

“I know Neil has gone over to talk to people about a couple of players. He’s met a couple of clubs regarding players over there – not Payero, we’re looking at other strikers.

“There were two opportunities, and he’s doing his best to get us someone else on board.”

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