Middlesbrough Beat Rivals in the Race for Norwich City Midfielder Jonny Howson
Middlesbrough have reportedly won the race for Norwich City midfielder Jonny Howson's signature - ahead of Championship rivals Leeds United.
Howson - whose existing deal expires next summer - turned down a new contract at Carrow Road after expressing his desire to move back north, and barring any late hiccups the 29-year-old will become Garry Monk's first major signing since taking over at the Riverside.
Despite Howson's former club Leeds reportedly interested in re-signing the 29-year-old, according to Press Association's Midlands reporter, Nick Mashiter, on Twitter the Leeds-born midfielder is poised to join up with Boro who are aiming to return to the Premier League on the first time of asking.
The 29-year-old made 188 appearances for Norwich during his five year spell at the club, where he was named as the club's Player of the Year in 2016.
NORWICH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 28: Jonny Howson of Norwich City and Kerim Frei of Birmingham City compete for the ball during the Sky Bet Championship match between Norwich City and Birmingham City at Carrow Road on January 28, 2017 in Norwich, England. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
Stephen Pond/GettyImages
Thus, the Canaries were reportedly reluctant to let their vice-captain leave the club, however with the need to re-build following the club's inability to return immediately to the top-flight, the funds raised from the midfielder's move will seemingly be re-invested into new acquisitions this summer.
The Whites faithful may feel slightly hard done by after their former manager, Monk, has seemingly swooped in under their nose and taken Howson out of their reach, with the transfer fee understood to be in the region of £5m.
If the transfer does move ahead without issues, as reported, then their could very well be a fiery and interesting home and away fixture next season between Middlesbrough and Leeds United.
