GASTON RAMIREZ has joined Middlesbrough on loan until the end of the season.

As reported in The Northern Echo on Saturday, Boro have been in talks with Southampton for over a week to try to broker a deal for the Uruguayan.

And, after initially feeling it could be a problem to strike a deal over his reputed £60,000-a-week wages, Middlesbrough have got things tied up.

He will arrive at Rockliffe Park later this week and it will be hoped he will figure against Blackburn on February 6 if the paperwork goes through in time.

The South American, a team-mate of Cristhian Stuani at the World Cup in 2014, has been considered by a number of top-flight clubs but Southampton wanted a permanent switch.

But they have been prepared to let him head for the Championship, where he will now play a key role in trying to get Middlesbrough promoted.

Aitor Karanka is desperate to add to his squad and Ramirez is the first of a couple he hopes.

“I am really pleased,” said Boro’s Head Coach. “He is a really good player who knows the league and the country.

“He has international experience and has played in the World Cup. He is another good player for us.

“He is the kind of player who wants to join us and that shows he is committed to us. He has played in the Premier League and I think it is important to bring in players with this kind of experience.”

Meanwhile, Fulham forward Ross McCormack remains on the radar and the player is said to be desperate to move on.

But Middlesbrough have indicated to the Cottagers that they are unwilling to match the valuation of the 29-year-old.

Karanka is still looking for a winger and centre-midfielder, although the latest recruit can play out wide or as a No 10.

Ramirez, 25, moved to Southampton from Bologna for £12m three years ago, but has played just 28 times during that run.

HOW TWITTER REACTED:

LIAM! ‏@22_liamurwin  

Burnley sign - Paul Robinson. We sign - Gaston Ramirez. No money involved, just a loan deal. Just shows how big of a club #Boro are! #UTB

Liam Bekker ‏@LiamBekker  

Middlesbrough have done great work to sign Gastón Ramírez. He struggled at Southampton but he's a class player on his day. #SaintsFC #Boro

Sam France ‏@sjakef  

Gaston Ramirez could rip up the Championship if he puts his mind to it. Here's hoping he does #Boro

tez ‏@tez1911 

Genuinely surprised by the Ramirez signing for the #Boro! Lots of potential. If anything, could light a fire up Downing. #UTB

Peter Stephens ‏@peter_stephens  

Gaston Ramirez - talent, not close to being suited for English football i'm afraid, let alone the physicality of the championship #boro

Kevin Scott ‏@Kevscott1982 

#Boro creativity has been poor and Ramirez will improve this but we are taking a punt on someone who has achieved nothing at other 2 clubs

Karl Parker ‏@borocrazyfan  

Gaston ramirez signs for @Boro that is some signing that like unreal player he will destroy the championship #boro