South Korean forward Lee Dong-gook is close to signing a deal
with Middlesbrough.
Lee's agent Kim Ki-hun has revealed that the 27-year-old is in the
process of agreeing terms with Boro after impressing in recent
trials.
"Middlesbrough has tested him three times and wants to sign a
contract with him," Kim told the Korean Times.
"We are talking over details of the terms."
The Pohang Steelers star - known as The Lion King, has netted 22
goals in 64 games for South Korea, and is widely regarded by local
pundits as the country's top finisher.
However, his career has been blighted by injuries and only recently
returned from a serious knee injury in October last year after
missing the 2006 World Cup.
In 2001, he spent six months on loan at German club Werder Bremen,
but failed to make an impact as a relatively raw 22-year-old.
Over the last few years, he has matured into top striker and his
eye-catching performances for Pohang and South Korea prompted
Middlesbrough to hand him a trial.