Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier could be heading for The
Riverside exit door, according to reports from Portugal.
Xavier has performed impressively for Boro this term and his
manager Gareth Southgate would be loath to lose the Portugal
international.
However, while being reticent to disclose the reasons behind his
desire to quit Teesside, Xavier is eager for a fresh
challenge.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola claims that there is interest in the
former Liverpool and Everton man from both England and the
continent, with Xavier eager to trigger a stipulation in his
contract that would allow him to leave.
"I desire a friendly accord and without problems," he is quoted as
saying in A Bola.
"The club knows this and I will attend a meeting on Monday to close
the exit. Boro have offered me another season but my decision is
definite.
"The motives will be explained at any moment."
