Skysports.com understands
Middlesbrough have made an audacious approach for Gary
Neville.
Boro boss Gareth Southgate is keen to add some experienced heads
to his squad as the North East outfit prepare for life in the
Championship next term.
Manchester United veteran Neville certainly fits that bill,
having won just about every major honour during his time at Old
Trafford.
The 34-year-old full-back, who can also boast 85 England caps on
an impressive CV, has been a fixture in the Red Devils' rearguard
for 17 years, but could be tempted by a fresh challenge at the
Riverside Stadium.
He has seen the last two seasons virtually written off through
injury, while the likes of Wes Brown and Rafael are now regarded as
long-term options at full-back for United.
With that in mind, Neville may welcome the opportunity to
prolong his career in the Championship, while helping Boro's
efforts to bounce back into the top flight at the first time of
asking.
Initial contact is believed to have been made and it now remains
to be seen whether United are willing to do business, or whether
Southgate can persuade his former England team-mate to swap life at
the reigning Premier League champions for that in the second
tier.
Should Neville head to Teesside, though, he could be joined by
fellow United stalwart Paul Scholes, with Boro also reported to be
keen on the ex-England international midfielder.