Middlesbrough coach Gareth Southgate confirmed late on Wednesday that Egyptian Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' has passed the medical and is set to sign very shortly. "We are just finalizing the details," Southgate said after Boro's 1-0 defeat to Wigan in the Premier League. "He's been in and has had medical and we are pretty confident it will be finalized tomorrow (Thursday)," he added. The Egyptian international was not able to hold a starting place with Tottenham last season and has been seeking an exit from White Harte Lane. After being linked to Birmingham City and Sunderland, the player agreed terms with Middlesbrough and is set to complete a move worth £6.8 million.
Southgate dished out praise for the former Ajax, Roma and Marseille ace. "We're delighted to get Mido," Southgate said. "It's important to keep strengthening the squad because we're short of experienced players. "I've been wanting a centre-forward who can hold up the ball. He has got a physical presence and can be a leader on the field. "Ultimately he has to score goals as well and I think Mido has all those attributes." Wednesday's defeat has left Boro with no points in their opening two games in the Premiership this season.
